The Anambra State Police Command has arrested the officer who went viral on social media after threatening to shoot anyone recording him while on duty.
The command confirmed the officer’s identity and announced the commencement of internal disciplinary proceedings against him.
In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, the officer was identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi, attached to the Anambra State Command.
Isokpehi sparked public outrage on Wednesday after a video surfaced online in which he threatened to “clear everybody down,” including bystanders, if anyone attempted to film him while carrying out his duties.
Speaking in Pidgin English and addressing the camera directly, the officer also vowed that any superior officer who approved the filming of policemen would be forced to “bury” the citizens he threatened to kill.
The video quickly circulated across X and Instagram before it was later deleted from his TikTok page. He subsequently released another video apologising for his comments, claiming they were made out of frustration.
According to the police statement, the command acted immediately after reviewing the viral clip.
“Following a prompt review of the video, the Command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the Command.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement read.
The command further disclosed that Isokpehi had undergone a drug test as part of the ongoing investigation into the incident.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as inconsistent with the values and professionalism expected within the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the conduct displayed by the officer in the video and reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the statement said.
The command assured the public that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings would be made public and that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions.
“The Anambra State Police Command further assures Ndi Anambra and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public and that any officer found culpable will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and police regulations,” it stated.
The police command also reminded officers and personnel to maintain professionalism, emotional control, and respect while carrying out their duties, especially in an era where their conduct is constantly under public scrutiny.
“The Command also uses this opportunity to remind officers and men of the Command to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful duties, especially in this era where actions and conduct are constantly subjected to public scrutiny,” the statement read.
The command also commended members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users for helping to draw attention to the incident, describing their actions as important to improving accountability within the force.
“The Command appreciates members of the public, civil society groups, and social media users who continue to assist the Police with credible information capable of improving service delivery and accountability.
“Residents are encouraged to continue reporting incidents or behaviours capable of undermining public peace, safety, and confidence in security agencies,” the statement concluded.