Every now and then, Nigerians come forward with claims that police officers extorted them. This extortion is often referred to as bribe, but these police officers do not care.
Now, things will no longer be the same in Imo State, as the State Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, is issuing a stern warning to personnel serving under his command.
Anyone found engaging in the unlawful act of extorting innocent civilians will be expelled, he says.
Moves like this are often highly appreciated by the public.
This is because many believe that such would serve as cleansing for the ‘damaged’ force.
Danjuma’s warning was contained in a statement released through the spokesperson for the Imo command, Henry Okoye.
In the statement, the Commissioner of Police gave a direct order.
Also, the Oder was for area commanders, divisional police officers, tactical team commanders, and traffic officers.
He ordered them to consistently carry out thorough oversight of their subordinates.
Combat
Furthermore, he emphasised that this measure will effectively combat extortion and various other forms of corrupt practices within the command.
“It is illegal and unprofessional for any police officer to demand money from a citizen before lodging their complaint or responding to their distress calls or releasing suspects on bail,” Danjuma said.
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He added: “I have mandated the Area commanders, the DPOs, the tactical team commanders and traffic officers.
“They are to vigorously supervise our men on the roads, offices and those attached to the government.
Consequences
“This will go a long way in clamping down on several cases of extortion and other corrupt practices in our fold.
“I say it without equivocation that any officer found wanting in these areas will be sanctioned by the force’s extant laws and expelled”.
Also, the commissioner commended the peaceful disposition of Imo residents during and after the yuletide.
