By Joe Chukindi

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a police officer seen in a now-viral video threatening to kill anyone who makes a video recording of him while at work.

A press release by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, identified the officer as Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi.

The release read: “The Anambra State Police Command wishes to formally address the public concerning a viral video currently circulating on social media in which a police officer was seen threatening violence and engaging in conduct unbecoming of a member of the Nigeria Police Force.

“Following a prompt review of the video, the command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the command.

“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer.

“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process.”

ASP Newton Isokpehi had threatened that he would kill anyone videotaping him, and that the Inspector General of Police who gave the order for them to do so would attend their burial ceremony.

In the release, the Commissioner of Police in the Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the conduct displayed by the officer in the video and reiterated that the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence.

The Anambra State Police Command further assured the people of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public and that any officer found culpable will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and police regulations.

The command used the opportunity to remind officers and men of the command to remain professional, emotionally balanced and respectful while carrying out their lawful duties, especially in this era where actions and conduct are constantly subjected to public scrutiny.