Delta CP to Punish Rights Violations, Orders Officers to Desist from Arrest by Proxy
Delta CP to Punish Rights Violations, Orders Officers to Desist from Arrest by Proxy
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Erale, has issued a stern warning to officers against arrest by proxy, declaring that those who violate citizens’ rights in the course of their duties will face disciplinary sanctions.
Erale, who gave the warning during his familiarisation tour of the Warri Area Command, condemned the practice of using innocent persons as pawns in disputes involving others, insisting that no individual should be arrested or detained to settle personal scores or pursue private grievances.
He charged officers to uphold professionalism, accountability and respect for fundamental human rights, stressing that the Police must not become an instrument for intimidation, vendetta or the persecution of innocent citizens.
He noted that law enforcement must be guided by professionalism, accountability and respect for human rights.
As part of the visit, Erale paid a courtesy visit on the Ovie of Agbarha-Warri Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Kingsley Emakpo Orereh, Igbi II, to strengthen the partnership between the Police and traditional institutions in maintaining peace and security.
At the royal palace, the CP acknowledged the strategic role of traditional rulers in promoting peace, resolving community disputes and supporting security initiatives at the grassroots.
He called for sustained cooperation between the Police, traditional institutions and community leaders to address security challenges and protect lives and property.
Addressing officers and stakeholders at the Warri Area Command, Erale described security as a collective responsibility, urging residents and community leaders not to leave the task of maintaining law and order to security agencies alone.
He encouraged stakeholders to embrace community policing by providing credible and timely information that could assist the Police in preventing crime and apprehending offenders.
The commissioner assured members of the public that the identities of informants would be treated with utmost confidentiality.
However, he cautioned against the deliberate supply of false or misleading information to the Police for reasons bordering on personal grievances, rivalry or sentiments.
He noted that such conduct could undermine investigations and compromise effective policing.
Erale further reiterated that respect for human rights must remain central to policing, warning that officers found violating the rights of citizens would face appropriate disciplinary measures.
He also urged community leaders and residents to promote tolerance, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence, warning against actions capable of generating unnecessary tension and threatening the security of their communities.
— By Ifeanyichukwu Praise