The Rivers State Police Command has initiated an investigation into claims of unlawful detention and misconduct at the Octopus Unit, C4i, Mile 2, Diobu, Port Harcourt, following reports circulated on social media.
The allegations claim that an individual was arrested over a petition unrelated to him, allegedly assaulted, and forced to pay N180,000 before being released several days later.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a full investigation into the matter. An investigative panel has been constituted to verify the claims and establish the facts.
“The panel has been directed to thoroughly examine the incident and ascertain the truth surrounding the allegations,” Agabe said, adding that the action reflects the command’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and human rights protection.
Adepoju has called on members of the public with credible information to assist the investigation through the Office of the Police Public Relations Officer or the Complaint Response Unit. He warned that any officer found guilty of misconduct or unlawful detention would face disciplinary action under relevant laws and regulations.
“Detention beyond the constitutionally approved period without due process is unlawful, unacceptable, and will not be tolerated,” the commissioner stated, assuring residents that citizens’ rights, freedom, and dignity would be safeguarded at all times.
Mr. Wisdom Chude, a lawyer and rights advocate who publicized the allegations, claimed that police initially refused to return the victim’s personal belongings after release. According to Chude, items including clothing and footwear were only returned after further payments.
He further alleged that some detainees had been held for two to three months without bail or court arraignment, with one reportedly paying N200,000 for bail only to be returned to the cell. Chude described these practices as violations of fundamental human rights and expressed concern over the effectiveness of existing oversight mechanisms, including inspections by judges and magistrates.
Chude called for direct inspections of tactical police units, arguing that they would allow independent assessment of detention conditions rather than relying solely on reports from unit commanders. He urged the police leadership to strengthen accountability and ensure the protection of individuals in custody.
