The Nigeria Police Force, NPF, says its officers are empowered by law to break down doors, enter through ceilings, or scale fences to arrest uncooperative suspects.
The Deputy Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Victor Isuku,
Isuku made the clarification during an interactive session with the public at the premiere of the movie Greatest Oath (The Rescue), produced by Ocean Portal in collaboration with the NPF on Sunday in Benin, Edo State.
CSP Isuku made it clear that obstructing police officers during an arrest could result in the arrest of the individual who interferes.
Addressing the issue of phone searches, the Deputy PRO pointed out that though it is unethical for officers to stop one along the road and search his phone, officers are, however, only permitted to check mobile devices when there is reasonable suspicion of cybercrime,
“The police will not just stop you on the road and begin to search your phone. It is unethical, and the Inspector-General frowns at such practices,” he said.
“There are situations where a policeman can search your phone. If you are suspected of having committed a cybercrime, your phone will be checked. The police will not just stop you on the road and begin to search you, it is unethical. The IG frowns at such unethical practice,” he reiterated.
