The Delta State Police Command has provided more details on the incident that led to the arrest and trial of some of its officers who were caught on video manhandling a woman in Agbarho. In a statement attached with a video released on Tuesday, Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Bright Edafe, explained that the woman in question was being arrested for allegedly destroying a man’s car’s windshield. However, the woman became aggressive and assaulted the woman police officer who was sent to invite her. She even tore the officer’s clothes. As a result, the policewoman called for reinforcement, and when the backup arrived, the woman poured a pot of soup on one of the policemen, even while he was in uniform.
The PPRO clarified that while the actions of the policemen who assaulted the woman were excessive and have been condemned by the command and the force management, it is important to provide details of the incident as some media outlets have been requesting. The erring officers are currently being court-martialed for their actions, but members of the public must also be mindful of how they relate with policemen in uniform.
It can be recalled that the Delta State Police Command had earlier arrested and identified some of its officers who were caught on camera dehumanizing the woman. In a statement released on Sunday, DSP Bright Edafe condemned the actions of the policemen, saying that no citizen deserves to be treated in such a manner either by the police or anyone else. The erring officers were summoned, identified, and detained at the command headquarters. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ari Muhammed Ali FCIA, psc+, has directed that internal disciplinary action be initiated immediately, and the outcome of their orderly room trial will be communicated to the public.
The Command reiterated that “rope” is not a police accoutrement and should not be used by policemen in any guise while carrying out their duties. The PPRO emphasized that it is not in the character of the Command to dehumanize and trample on the rights of citizens, and the officers concerned will be dealt with decisively by the extant laws as stipulated in the Police Act and regulations to serve as a deterrent to others. The CP assured the public that the protection of life and properties in the state remains the top priority of the Command.
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