Police Officers Detained Following Checkpoint Incident
The Adamawa State Police Command has taken decisive action against two of its officers following reports of unprofessional behavior at a security checkpoint near River Side in Jimeta. The incident, which occurred during a routine vehicle inspection, has prompted an internal investigation ordered by Police Commissioner Dankombo Morris.
Details of the Checkpoint Altercation
According to official reports, the officers attached to Jimeta Divisional Police Headquarters stopped a Mercedes 180 vehicle for standard security procedures when the situation escalated unexpectedly. The vehicle occupants reportedly resisted the search operation, leading to a confrontation that culminated in one officer firing shots at the car's tires.
Police authorities have described the shooting as completely unnecessary and improper, emphasizing that such actions violate established police disciplinary standards and operational protocols. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from the incident, though the vehicle sustained damage from the gunfire.
Police Command's Response and Investigation
Commissioner Dankombo Morris, through police spokesperson Suleiman Yahaya Nguroje in Yola, confirmed that both officers are currently in police custody pending the outcome of a comprehensive investigation. The commissioner assured the public that appropriate disciplinary measures would be enforced once the inquiry concludes.
The Adamawa State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to maintaining professionalism, discipline, and respect for citizens' rights during all law enforcement operations. This incident marks another test of the police force's accountability mechanisms in dealing with officer misconduct.
Historical Context of Police Conduct Issues
This recent incident echoes a similar case from September 2018 when the Lagos State police command arrested Inspector Emmanuel Egba after he was photographed holding a beer bottle while on duty. In that earlier case, the officer claimed he had confiscated the bottle from a driver drinking in traffic, though the command initiated disciplinary proceedings to verify his account.
The recurrence of such incidents highlights ongoing challenges in maintaining professional standards within police ranks across different states in Nigeria. The Adamawa command's prompt response to the latest incident demonstrates continued efforts to address conduct issues proactively.
