By Matthew Don
In what appears like his first major sanction, the new Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Edgal Imohimi, has ordered the immediate removal of police anti-kidnapping commander for alleged abuse of office.
The spokesman for the command, Olarinde Famous-Cole, confirmed the removal to journalists on Monday, September 3.
Famous-Cole, said the removal would ensure an impartial investigation into alleged bribery, sexual molestation and detention of a lady.
The officer was said o have rebuffed all moves to release the lady, in some instances asking for gratification.
Famous-Cole said: “The CP has ordered the immediate removal of the O/C Anti-Kidnapping, CSP Adejobi back to the command. The CP is worried about this allegation and wants justice to be done.
“He requested that all parties involved come for an interview at the police command on Tuesday 5th Sept. 2017 at 9 am, including the alleged victim.
“The New CP has also directed that the DC Panti commence a discreet and in-depth investigation into the allegation.
“He is reassuring Lagosians that every officer found indicted by their actions or inaction in regards this matter will face the full weight of the police regulations.”
Imonihi was responding to the Network on Police Reform In Nigeria, NOPRIN petition to him on the alleged abuse of office by anti-kidnapping commander and some men under him.
The petition alleged that Blessing, a single mother, was arrested for alleged theft of $50,000 (about N18 million).
NOPRIN further stated that the officers demanded N70,000 bribe for her bail, while a sister to Blessing was allegedly molested sexually by some policemen at the Anti-Kidnapping unit.