The Abia State Police Command has arrested two men for allegedly impersonating operatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and carrying out illegal enforcement activities in Umuahia.
The suspects, identified as Anthony Kelechi (41) and Bright Abraham (42), were apprehended by detectives from the Central Police Station following a viral video that captured them assaulting and handcuffing a commercial tricycle operator.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chinaka, the disturbing footage showed one of the suspects dressed in attire resembling that of a security operative, while the other appeared in plain clothes as they physically attacked the victim.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the duo are members of the Social Watch Anti-Drugs Abuse Advocacy, an organisation established to promote awareness against drug abuse.
However, police allege that the suspects exploited the platform as a front to impersonate NDLEA officials, conduct unlawful arrests, and extort unsuspecting members of the public.
“The suspects were arrested following a viral video depicting two individuals assaulting and handcuffing an autorickshaw rider,” Chinaka stated, adding that investigations are ongoing to ensure diligent prosecution.
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The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Danladi Isa, cautioned citizens against taking the law into their own hands.
He emphasized that while the law permits private individuals to arrest offenders caught in the act, such suspects must be immediately handed over to the police.
“The use of force, intimidation, assault, or impersonation of law enforcement agencies for extortion is criminal and will not be tolerated,” the commissioner warned.
The police command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station.
The incident adds to growing concerns over the rising trend of impersonation of security personnel by criminal elements seeking to exploit and extort members of the public.
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