The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Mr Simeon Akpanudom speaking on Monday during his working tour and lecture at the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), Lagos Island
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, Mr Simeon Akpanudom, has warned detectives against human rights abuses, proxy arrests and corruption in the discharge of their duties.
Akpanudom gave the warning on Monday during separate working tours and lectures at the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT), Lagos Island, and the Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU), Ikoyi.
He urged personnel to uphold the ethics, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), stressing that all forms of illegal duty were unacceptable.
The AIG said working with senior officers was a privilege that provided opportunities for knowledge, guidance, mentorship and professional development.
He urged detectives to continually update their knowledge of relevant laws and standard operating procedures, particularly in specialised investigations.
“The job has standard operating procedures which you must follow. Investigation in very specialised cases is not something you gloss over or approach without preparation,” he said.
Akpanudom said investigators must remain abreast of emerging trends and legal developments, particularly in financial crimes, noting that criminals were constantly evolving.
He particularly warned against proxy arrests, urging detectives to conduct thorough background investigations before apprehending suspects.
“If you are looking for Mr John, it is Mr John you are looking for. You must have done a lot of background investigation before you look for Mr John,” he said.
He cautioned against the arbitrary seizure of phones and electronic devices, saying such items should only be seized where they were instruments of an offence or required to support investigations.
The AIG also directed officers to obtain relevant High Court orders and warrants before processing requests for watch-listing and other restrictive measures.
He urged detectives to consult the legal department during investigations, saying early legal guidance would improve the quality of investigations and reports.
Akpanudom warned against abuse of remand orders and warrants, urging officers to respect the fundamental rights of suspects and members of the public.
“We have to be very conscious of the rights of our citizens. Do not abuse people’s rights,” he said.
He advised officers to avoid duplicating investigations, noting that some complainants could conceal previous reports to have another formation take over their cases.
The AIG charged detectives to properly verify cases before taking them over and seek legal guidance where necessary.
The police boss also urged team leaders and senior officers to properly supervise their personnel and ensure compliance with lawful directives.
Akpanudom emphasised discipline and proper appearance, urging officers to dress neatly and maintain the professional standard expected of police personnel.
He warned against corruption and professional misconduct, stressing that the actions of individual officers could affect the reputation of the entire NPF.
“Let us be in the news for the good reason. Even if you didn’t get anything else, let that be your mantra,” he said.
The AIG expressed confidence in the capabilities of Nigerian police officers, urging them to remain professional, competent and committed to public trust.
The Commissioners of Police in charge of SWAT and PSFU, Mr Olukayode Ayilara and Mr Eloho Okpoiakpo, respectively, thanked the AIG for the visit and valuable guidance.
They assured him of their commitment to upholding professionalism, discipline and integrity in their respective formations. (NAN)(NAN)
