The Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 11, Osogbo, Bassey Ewah, has ordered an investigation into a viral video showing police officers allegedly assaulting students at a hostel in Ede, Osun State.
The incident reportedly happened on Wednesday during an operation by armed officers attached to the Police Cybercrime Unit at Zone 11 Headquarters.
In the video circulating online, two officers were seen dragging a man out of his hostel room and assaulting him within the compound.
One of the officers was allegedly heard instructing his colleague to shoot the man in the leg.
A woman who attempted to stop the assault was also slapped several times by one of the officers.
Another woman recording the incident from an upstairs section of the building was ordered to stop filming. Some officers were also seen threatening and intimidating her.
The footage has generated public outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concerns over police brutality, harassment and the violation of citizens’ rights.
Reacting to the incident, AIG Bassey Ewah expressed concern and confirmed that an investigation had commenced.
The police authorities said the officers involved had been identified and that their conduct was being investigated.
Ewah maintained that the police would not tolerate brutality, intimidation or abuse of power by its personnel.
He stressed that officers must perform their duties professionally and respect the fundamental rights and dignity of citizens, regardless of the circumstances surrounding an arrest.
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The AIG further warned that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with police regulations and existing laws.
He also assured residents of Osun and Oyo states that the command remained committed to accountability, professionalism and protecting citizens’ rights.
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