NEWS DIGEST- On Wednesday, October 18, the Lagos Police Commissioner, Idowu Owohunwa, took decisive action by removing the Meiran Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Tony Abutu, along with three other policemen. This move came after allegations surfaced that they had extorted N200,000 from Ibrahim Saliu, a mobile phone engineer and dealer.
According to Saliu, he and his brother, Olaiya Murtala, were detained by the police for failing to produce an identity card or receipts for the iPhones found in his brother’s possession. Saliu claimed that his brother was sent to his shop with six iPhones, and during a routine stop-and-search, the police arrested him and transported him to the police station.
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Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos Police Public Relations Officer, responded swiftly to the allegations stating, “If the allegation is proven to be true, that is wrong and unprofessional.” Hundeyin also urged the complainant to reach out to the Complaint Response Unit of the state police command to initiate an investigation.
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In an update, Hundeyin further announced that CP Idowu Owohunwa had ordered the immediate removal of DPO Meiran due to leadership dereliction and supervisory ineptitude. This action demonstrates the commitment of the Lagos Police Commissioner to maintaining professional conduct within the force and highlights the importance of accountability.
As the investigation unfolds, it is crucial to ensure a fair and thorough inquiry into these allegations of extortion. The Lagos Police Commissioner’s actions serve as a reminder that no form of misconduct will be tolerated, emphasizing the need to maintain public trust and confidence in law enforcement.
“Meanwhile, all the officers involved have been identified and are currently at the command headquarters where their orderly room trial has commenced.”
