"Don't Allow Any Police Officer to Search Your Phone. It Is Illegal" – FCT Police Commissioner Warns Abuja Residents
The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ahmed Sanusi, has issued a stern warning to Abuja residents, telling them not to allow police officers to search their phones during routine arrests or stop-and-search operations, describing the practice as illegal.
"Don't Allow Any Police Officer to Search Your Phone. It Is Illegal" – FCT Police Commissioner Warns Abuja Residents
Speaking to journalists in Abuja on Monday, Sanusi made it clear that no police officer has the legal right to demand access to a person's phone on the road.
He urged residents to raise an alarm immediately if any officer attempts to do so, assuring that the FCT Police Command would respond promptly.
"Don't allow any police officers to search your phone and we're saying this due to the abuse and extortive tendencies of some of our officers," he said.
The Commissioner's warning comes amid growing concerns over the conduct of some police officers who have been accused of extorting money from residents under the guise of searching their phones.
According to Sanusi, the directive is part of efforts to curb the abuse of power and protect the rights of citizens.
He emphasized that while the police have the authority to stop and search individuals, such searches must be conducted within the bounds of the law and must not violate the privacy of residents.
The warning has been welcomed by many Abuja residents who have complained of harassment by police officers on the road.
Some have shared stories of being forced to hand over their phones for inspection, with officers demanding payment before returning them.
Sanusi's directive is expected to empower residents to stand up against such abuses and hold officers accountable for their actions.
Sanusi also stressed that the FCT Command would not tolerate any form of misconduct by its officers and would take disciplinary action against those found guilty of extortion or abuse of power.
He called on residents to report any incidents of misconduct to the Command, assuring them that their complaints would be treated with utmost seriousness.
The directive serves as a reminder that while security is important, the rights of citizens must always be protected.
Source: TrendyBeatz
