Provide Evidence’ — Police Replies VeryDarkMan Over Kidnapping Claims

According to Ireporter Online, the Police described the claims made by VeryDarkMan at the recent Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt as unsubstantiated and damaging to the reputation of the Force.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the Police said allegations of such magnitude should be backed by credible evidence.

The Force maintained that officers deployed to checkpoints across the country are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activities and protecting citizens, rather than assisting kidnappers.

It also noted that police personnel regularly confront violent criminals operating along the nation’s highways, adding that officers have been ambushed, attacked and killed while carrying out their duties.

The Police said it was unfair to portray the entire institution as being involved in criminal activities based on allegations made without supporting evidence.

It acknowledged that individual officers could be investigated and punished if found to have compromised their duties, stressing that anyone proven to have assisted criminals would face internal disciplinary measures and prosecution under the law.

The Force consequently challenged VeryDarkMan to provide evidence supporting his claims, particularly any information showing that police officers identify wealthy travellers at checkpoints and subsequently pass their details to kidnappers.

The Police assured that any credible evidence provided by the social media personality or members of the public would be treated seriously and investigated promptly.

The Force further encouraged Nigerians with information about alleged police misconduct to make formal reports through appropriate channels so that investigations and necessary actions can be undertaken.

CSP Iniedu reiterated the Police Force’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, while warning against the spread of unverified allegations concerning national security institutions.

According to the Police, legitimate criticism can help strengthen accountability, but unsupported claims could undermine public confidence in security agencies and potentially affect national security.

The Force maintained that while it remains open to credible allegations of misconduct, the sacrifices of its personnel should not be undermined by sweeping accusations that are not backed by evidence.