The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a policeman captured in a viral video shooting at a moving vehicle in Asaba, the state capital.
In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Edafe Bright, the Command described the officer’s conduct as “unprofessional and unbecoming of a police officer,” stressing that such actions violate the Nigeria Police Force’s operational code, particularly Force Order 237, which regulates the use of firearms.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, immediately ordered the identification and arrest of the officer after reviewing the viral footage.
The erring officer has since been detained at the Command Headquarters in Asaba, while an internal disciplinary process has been initiated.
“The Command condemns his act in totality as no policeman has the right to use his firearm without recourse to Force Order 237,” the statement read. “It is the duty of every Nigerian Police officer to protect lives and property and not to put the life of anybody in danger.”
SP Bright further disclosed that preliminary findings revealed the officer was responding to a reported hit-and-run incident when the shooting occurred.
However, the Command maintained that “no policeman is allowed to use his firearm without justification.”
The Commissioner of Police assured members of the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that the officer will face the full weight of the law if found culpable.
“Protection of life and property in the State remains the priority of the Command,” the statement concluded.
