Kaduna CP Launches Probe into Viral Extortion Video Allegations

Following the emergence of a widespread video on social media, the Kaduna State Police Command has initiated a thorough inquiry into its personnel. The video purportedly depicts police officers engaging in alleged extortion of drivers and motorcyclists during a stop-and-search exercise within a Millennium City suburb. DSP Mansir Hassan, the command’s spokesperson, confirmed in a Tuesday statement that Commissioner of Police Rabiu Muhammad has mandated the identification and questioning of the implicated officers, ensuring that those found guilty will face suitable disciplinary actions.

“The Command wishes to clarify that routine roadblocks and stop-and-search operations have been curtailed, except where there is credible intelligence on the movement of criminals, arms, or other prohibited items,” the statement partly noted. It further highlighted that the specific route shown in the viral footage, a suburb of Millennium City, has historically been a hotspot for criminal activities, recalling that police operatives had previously seized 20 AK-47 rifles in that vicinity.

Hassan strongly emphasized that no police officer is authorized to exploit official security assignments as a means for extortion, harassment, or any other form of misbehavior. He added that any personnel found culpable would be subjected to stringent disciplinary measures and legal repercussions.

The Commissioner of Police, through the statement, also lauded the public for their alertness and encouraged them to persist in reporting instances of unprofessional conduct exhibited by police personnel.

Public reactions to the video on Wednesday were swift and critical. Instagram user #almu.stapha0012 commented, “Come to bypass and see something…extorting tricyclist every goddamn day and they are fully dressed.” Another user, #edmund_onoriode, remarked, “#nigeriapoliceforce this shenanigans by your men happen all over the country.” #vivianokugo2024 shared a personal experience, stating, “It’s happening everywhere in Nigeria; my dad experienced it just last week.” Meanwhile, #sussy_lords expressed cynicism, adding, “No matter how much they increase police salary in Nigeria, they will do this because they are used to it.”

Other news items from the period included: Police killing two bandits and arresting 11 suspects in Sokoto; Police arresting two robbery suspects and recovering three pistols in Ogun; and the Army arresting 18 illegal miners and recovering N2.4m in Niger. Criticizing the police's response, #kingdozi_ questioned, “Always talking investigation, what’s there to investigate in a video like this? We have hundreds of this setup spread across the country right now.”

The Kaduna State Police Command reiterated its dedication to upholding professional policing standards, ensuring accountability, and safeguarding the rights and security of all citizens within the state.