The Commissioner of Police for the Lagos State Command, CP Olohundare Jimoh, has issued a stern warning to officers against extortion, harassment, and human rights violations, specifically prohibiting the random searching of citizens’ mobile phones on the streets.
The directive was delivered during a strategic meeting with the command’s leadership, including Deputy Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Tactical Commanders, to reinforce the policies of the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM.
CP Jimoh reminded all personnel of their duty to uphold the rights and dignity of every citizen, stating that crime prevention must be conducted “with a human face.” He strongly condemned the unprofessional practice of name-calling, particularly when directed at young people, and warned that officers must not subject Nigerians to unnecessary hardship.
Addressing a major point of public complaint, the Commissioner reiterated that stopping individuals from checking their mobile phones is strictly forbidden unless the device is a confirmed exhibit in an ongoing investigation. “Such actions can only be taken within the police station as part of a legitimate investigation, not on the road,” CP Jimoh emphasised.
While addressing officer conduct, the Commissioner also highlighted the Command’s recent successes in crime-fighting for the month. Key arrests include: Samsideen Oladiti (a.k.a. Shameleon): Apprehended in connection with two violent crimes, Jude Onouha: The alleged leader of a vehicle vandalism syndicate who disguised himself as a security guard to gain access to residential estates and John Samuel: An ex-convict and suspected hired assassin, arrested for armed robbery and the attempted murder of a victim robbed of gold jewelry worth millions of naira.
The Commissioner said these successes reflect the command’s ongoing commitment to ridding the state of criminal elements. He called on residents to continue to support the police by providing credible and timely information to ensure the safety and security of their communities.
