Delta CP vows sanctions for officers who violate rights

Goddy Simon, Asaba

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale, has warned officers against unlawful arrests and violations of citizens’ rights, particularly the practice of arresting innocent people on behalf of others.

He said officers found engaging in such misconduct would face disciplinary action.

Erale gave the warning during a familiarisation visit to the Warri Area Command, where he condemned the use of innocent persons as instruments for settling personal disputes or pursuing private grievances.

He stressed that no citizen should be arrested or detained to intimidate, harass or punish another person over personal disagreements.

The commissioner urged officers to uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for fundamental human rights, warning that the Police must not be used as an instrument of intimidation, vendetta or persecution.

As part of his visit, Erale paid a courtesy call on the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, to strengthen cooperation between the Police and traditional institutions in maintaining peace and security.

At the palace, he acknowledged the important role of traditional rulers in resolving community disputes, promoting peaceful coexistence and supporting security initiatives at the grassroots.

The CP also described security as a collective responsibility, urging residents, community leaders and other stakeholders to work closely with security agencies to prevent crime and protect lives and property.

He encouraged members of the public to embrace community policing by providing credible and timely information that could assist the Police in preventing criminal activities and apprehending suspects.

Eralе assured residents that the identities of informants would be treated with utmost confidentiality.

However, he warned against supplying false or misleading information to the Police to settle personal scores, pursue rivalries or promote individual interests.

He said such actions could undermine investigations and compromise effective policing.

The commissioner further urged community leaders and residents to promote tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, cautioning against actions capable of creating tension and threatening security.