The Commissioner of Police, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, CP Ajao Adewale, has issued a stern warning to police officers under his command, directing them to desist from illegal detentions, meddling in civil disputes particularly land matters and extorting suspects or complainants.
The directive comes in response to reports of officers unlawfully detaining individuals for bailable offences, extorting money from both complainants and suspects, and unlawfully intervening in cases that fall outside the purview of police work.
Describing such actions as clear violations of constitutional rights and standing directives from the Inspector-General of Police, CP Adewale stressed that these acts will not be tolerated under his leadership.
He instructed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and Heads of Departments (HODs) to immediately review and release any individuals held for minor or bailable offences provided proper documentation and verified surety are in place.
He emphasized that “bail is free,” and warned that any officer caught demanding payment for bail or case documentation will face serious disciplinary consequences.
CP Adewale also reiterated that police officers must refrain from handling civil disputes, especially land-related matters, as such cases fall within the jurisdiction of civil courts.
He warned that any officer who violates this order and supervisors who fail to enforce it will be held accountable.
He further condemned any demands for payment prior to case investigations, labelling such practices as outright extortion and abuse of office. Offenders, he said, will be duly prosecuted.
In a firm message to the public, the Commissioner also cautioned citizens against offering bribes to officers, reminding them that such actions constitute criminal offences under Section 118 of the Penal Code Act.
He urged residents not to weaponize the police for personal vendettas or debt recovery.