FCT Commissioner of Police Warns Against Bribes, Orders Release of Illegal Detainees

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commissioner of Police, CP Ajao Adewale, has issued a strong warning to residents and officers in Abuja regarding bribery and unlawful detentions. The CP emphasized that offering or accepting bribes is a criminal offence under Section 118 of the Penal Code Act. He called on citizens to resist the temptation of bribing police officers and urged officers to maintain professionalism and integrity.

CP Adewale’s directive follows multiple complaints from residents about illegal detentions over bailable offences, extortion, and police interference in civil disputes, particularly those involving land matters. He ordered the immediate release of all suspects detained for minor, bailable offences, provided proper documentation and surety verification are completed.

In a statement released by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, the CP reiterated that bail is free and warned that any officer caught demanding money for bail or documentation would face disciplinary measures. He also cautioned officers against involvement in civil disputes, stressing that such matters fall outside the jurisdiction of the police.

Furthermore, CP Adewale condemned the practice of demanding payment before initiating investigations, describing it as extortion and an abuse of office. He urged residents not to misuse police services for debt recovery or personal disputes and encouraged the public to report misconduct via the FCT Complaint Response Unit (CRU) at 08107314192.

The FCT Police Command assured the public of its commitment to accountability, respect for human rights, and the delivery of professional policing services across Abuja.