The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a serving Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, over a viral video in which he was seen allegedly threatening violence and engaging in conduct described as unprofessional and unbecoming of a police officer.
The Command disclosed this in a press statement signed on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, and issued through the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata.
According to the Command, the officer was swiftly identified and arrested immediately after a review of the trending video.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement read.
It further confirmed that the officer has been subjected to a drug test as part of ongoing investigations aimed at determining the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Commissioner of Police strongly condemned the conduct displayed in the video, stressing that the Nigeria Police Force remains a disciplined institution that will not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any behaviour capable of eroding public trust.
“The Anambra State Police Command reiterates 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 statement said.
The Command assured residents of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public, adding that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions in line with police regulations and the law.
It also used the opportunity to caution officers and men of the Command to remain professional, emotionally stable, and respectful in the discharge of their duties, particularly in an era of heightened public scrutiny.
“The Command also uses this opportunity to remind officers and men of the Command to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful duties,” it added.
The police command appreciated members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users for assisting security agencies with credible information, urging continued cooperation in reporting activities capable of undermining public peace and safety.
