The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Lagos, Mr Simeon Akpanudom, has warned detectives attached to the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) and Police Special Fraud Unit (PSFU) against human rights abuses, proxy arrests, corruption and other forms of professional misconduct.
Akpanudom issued the warning on Monday during separate working tours and lectures at the SWAT, Lagos Island, and the PSFU, Ikoyi, where he charged officers to strictly adhere to the ethics, discipline and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The AIG stressed that illegal practices were unacceptable, urging detectives to understand and follow established standard operating procedures, particularly when handling specialised investigations.
According to him, investigators must continuously update their knowledge of relevant laws, investigative procedures and emerging trends, especially in financial crimes, as criminals were constantly developing new methods.
“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 particularly warned detectives against proxy arrests, stressing the need for adequate background investigations before apprehending suspects to ensure that innocent persons were not arrested in place of those being sought.
“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 also cautioned officers against the arbitrary seizure of mobile phones and electronic devices, directing that such items should only be taken where they constitute instruments of an offence or are relevant to an investigation.
The police boss further directed detectives to obtain appropriate High Court orders and warrants before processing requests for watch-listing and other restrictive measures, while urging them to involve the legal department early in investigations.
He said timely legal guidance would strengthen investigations, improve the quality of police reports and prevent procedural errors that could undermine cases in court.
Akpanudom equally warned officers against abusing remand orders and warrants, stressing the need to protect 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.
The AIG also raised concerns over the duplication of investigations, noting that some complainants could deliberately conceal previous reports in order to have another police formation take over their cases.
He therefore directed detectives to properly verify complaints and establish the history of cases before taking them over, adding that officers should seek legal advice whenever necessary.
Akpanudom charged team leaders and senior officers to strengthen supervision and ensure that personnel complied with lawful directives and professional standards.
He also emphasised discipline and proper appearance, urging officers to maintain neatness and the level of professionalism expected of members of the Nigeria Police Force.
On corruption, the AIG warned that acts of misconduct by individual officers could damage the reputation and public confidence in the entire police institution.
“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.
Akpanudom expressed confidence in the capabilities of Nigerian police officers, urging detectives to remain competent, professional and committed to protecting public trust.
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The Commissioners of Police in charge of SWAT and PSFU, Mr Olukayode Ayilara and Mr Eloho Okpoziakpo, respectively, thanked the AIG for the visit and guidance.
They assured him of their commitment to strengthening professionalism, discipline and integrity in their respective formations.
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