Police arrest officer who threatened to kill anyone filming him
Police arrest officer who threatened to kill anyone filming him
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, after a viral video showed him threatening violence against individuals recording him while on duty.
The command disclosed this in a statement issued by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu.
According to the statement, the command acted swiftly after reviewing the footage circulating on social media.
“The Anambra State Police Command wishes to formally address the public concerning a viral video currently circulating on social media in which a police officer was seen threatening violence and engaging in conduct unbecoming of a member of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement said.
“Following a prompt review of the video, the command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the command.”
The police said disciplinary procedures had already commenced against the officer in line with the ethics and standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement added.
The command further revealed that the officer had undergone a drug test as part of ongoing investigations into the incident.
“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.”
In the viral video, ASP Isokpehi was heard threatening to kill anyone who filmed him and allegedly stated that the Inspector General of Police, who authorised citizens to record police activities, would attend the burial of anyone caught doing so.
Reacting to the incident, CP Orutugu condemned the officer’s conduct, stressing that the police force would not tolerate acts capable of damaging public confidence.
He reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force remained a disciplined institution that would not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement or any unprofessional behaviour.
The command also assured residents of Anambra State that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public, adding that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with police regulations and the law.
It also reminded officers and personnel of the command to remain professional, emotionally balanced and respectful while carrying out their duties, especially at a time when police actions are constantly under public scrutiny.
