The Anambra State Police Command has arrested Assistant Superintendent of Police Newton Isokpehi after a viral video showed him threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while on duty.
The disturbing footage, which circulated widely on social media, triggered outrage among Nigerians and renewed concerns over police misconduct, abuse of power and threats against civilians exercising their rights.
In the video, the officer allegedly warned that he would shoot anyone caught filming him during operations, comments that drew sharp condemnation from members of the public and civil rights advocates.
Following public backlash, the Anambra State Police Command confirmed that the officer had been identified, arrested and placed under internal disciplinary investigation.
In a statement issued by the command, police authorities disclosed that ASP Isokpehi had also been subjected to a drug test as part of efforts to determine all circumstances surrounding his conduct.
The command stated that the disciplinary measures were in line with the ethical standards and regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the officer’s behaviour, insisting that the police institution would not tolerate misconduct or actions capable of undermining public confidence.
“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 commissioner stated.
Police authorities further assured Nigerians that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings would be made public and that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with police regulations and the law.
Meanwhile, another controversy emerged after an old video allegedly involving ASP Isokpehi resurfaced online.
In the throwback footage, the officer was seen verbally attacking Nigerians who protested the alleged extrajudicial killing of a 28-year-old man identified as Oghenemine Ogidi in Delta State.
According to reports, Ogidi was allegedly shot dead on April 26 after police operatives intercepted him while attempting to retrieve a parcel said to contain a pistol.
The victim reportedly maintained that he was unaware of the parcel’s contents and allegedly offered to help officers identify the sender before he was killed.
The resurfaced video reportedly showed ASP Isokpehi criticising those condemning the killing and expressing anger over disciplinary actions taken against officers linked to the incident.
