Anambra Police Command Arrests Officer Captured In Viral Video Thr£atening To Sh0ot Civilians Filming Him On Duty
Anambra Police Command Arrests Officer Captured In Viral Video Threatening To Shoot Civilians Filming Him On Duty
Isokpehi, who spoke in a viral video seen by SaharaReporters, angrily warned citizens against filming police officers during operations, insisting that anybody caught recording him would face deadly consequences.
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of ASP Newton Isokpehi, the police officer in a viral video on social media, who threatened to “shoot dead” anyone who records him while on duty.
SaharaReporters had reported how the officer sparked outrage after openly threatening to shoot not only anyone who records him while on duty, but also other innocent passengers inside the commercial bus in which the person filming him was seated.
Isokpehi, who spoke in a viral video seen by SaharaReporters, angrily warned citizens against filming police officers during operations, insisting that anybody caught recording him would face deadly consequences.
In the disturbing footage, Isokpehi, dressed in mufti and speaking in Pidgin English, repeatedly threatened violence against civilians while lamenting the poor welfare conditions faced by officers in the Nigeria Police Force.
He also took a swipe at senior police authorities who had encouraged citizens to record officers carrying out official duties, saying such officials would be responsible for burying those who attempt to film policemen.
The visibly angry officer further questioned why civilians often record policemen but avoid filming soldiers or operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS).
In a press statement issued on Thursday by the Anambra Police Command’s Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, DCP Ngozi Ezeabata, the command said that Isokpehi, who serves within the command, was swiftly identified and taken into custody following a review of the trending video.
According to the command, internal disciplinary procedures have already commenced against the officer in line with the ethical standards and regulations guiding the Nigeria Police Force.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the command said.
The Commissioner of Police in the State, Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, stressing that the police institution would not tolerate any act of misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or unprofessional behaviour capable of eroding public confidence in the force.
“The Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the command noted.
The command assured residents of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public.
It added that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with police regulations and the law.
The police also cautioned officers and men of the command to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful duties, particularly in an era where their actions are constantly under public scrutiny.
The command further appreciated members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users for providing credible information capable of improving accountability and service delivery within the police system.
The police encouraged residents of the state to continue reporting incidents or behaviour capable of threatening public peace, safety, and confidence in security agencies.
