DELTA—The Commissioner of Police in Delta State, Yemi Oyeniyi, has issued a stern warning to officers and men of the command to desist from extortion and involvement in civil matters.
The CP handed down the directive during a conference with heads of departments and tactical commanders, stressing that the order aligns with the position of the Inspector-General of Police on discipline and accountability.
He cautioned officers against meddling in civil disputes, especially land matters, except where such cases involve criminal elements like violence or homicide.
Oyeniyi charged personnel to remain professional, uphold integrity and rededicate themselves to service, warning that acts of corruption would not be tolerated under his watch.
He also directed officers to adopt proactive policing strategies, including intelligence-led operations, community engagement, stop-and-search duties and faster response to incidents.
The CP warned against poorly executed raids, noting that shoddy investigations and weak prosecution erode public trust and portray the Force in bad light.
On accountability, he tasked Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) to take full responsibility for activities within their jurisdictions, warning against arrest by proxy.
“Only those directly linked to an offence should be arrested and investigated,” he stressed.
Oyeniyi further emphasised the importance of professionalism at duty posts, particularly the Charge Room, describing it as the critical interface between the police and the public.
Reiterating a zero-tolerance stance on extortion and illegal checkpoints, he warned that any erring officer would face strict disciplinary action.
The CP urged officers to remain vigilant, detect early warning signs of crime and ensure that policing is carried out within the ambit of the law, with due respect for the rights of citizens.
