Police invite VeryDarkMan over officers’ kidnap link claim

The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist VeryDarkMan to provide evidence backing his claim that police officers at checkpoints collude with kidnappers and bandits. The Force Public Relations Officer stated that VeryDarkMan made these allegations at a recent Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt. The police described the claim as serious, unsubstantiated, and damaging to the institution entrusted with the protection of Nigerians.

They emphasized that allegations of this gravity require a corresponding standard of evidence, which has not yet been met. The force invited VeryDarkMan to submit evidence supporting his allegations, including any evidence of police personnel at checkpoints identifying wealthy individuals and transmitting information to kidnappers.

The police assured that any evidence presented would be investigated thoroughly and treated with urgency. They urged the public to approach appropriate authorities with credible evidence of police misconduct instead of relying solely on public allegations. The police emphasized that their officers are assigned to prevent crime, detect criminal activities, and protect citizens, not to facilitate kidnapping.

They also highlighted that officers routinely confront criminal elements and have faced attacks and casualties in the line of duty. The police stated that individuals found to have compromised their duties would face internal disciplinary measures and prosecution. They cautioned against blanket accusations that could demoralize personnel and undermine public trust, urging the public to exercise responsibility when making and sharing allegations concerning national security institutions.