Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Abaniwonda Olufemi, has issued a stern warning to officers under his command, declaring zero tolerance for extortion, rights abuses, illegal detention and illegal searching of citizens’ mobile phones.
Speaking during a strategic conference with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), tactical commanders and other senior officers at the Police Officers’ Mess, Asaba, the state capital, Abaniwonda said the days of unprofessional policing were over.
The meeting, which followed fresh directives from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, was convened to review operations and set new priorities ahead of the “ember months” security push.
Abaniwonda specifically condemned the practice of stopping citizens to search their mobile phones — a trend that has repeatedly sparked public outrage — describing it as “unacceptable, embarrassing, and illegal.”
“Let me make this very clear: no officer has the right to randomly stop members of the public and search their phones. Anyone caught doing so will face severe disciplinary action,” the CP warned.
He reiterated the Command’s zero tolerance for extortion and abuse of power, directing senior officers to step up supervision through thorough pre-deployment briefings and post-operation debriefs.
The police chief also ordered that all patrols and checkpoints be intelligence-driven and carried out with professionalism and respect for human rights. He urged tactical units to focus on identified crime black spots and known kidnap or robbery routes while strengthening collaboration with sister security agencies and local communities.
Abaniwonda assured residents that a robust security strategy was already being deployed and would be further intensified as the festive season approaches.
“We will not relax. Our officers will be more visible, proactive, and responsive. We are determined to keep Delta safe,” he added.
He also appealed to the public to support police efforts by remaining vigilant and sharing credible information with the Command through the nearest police station or its dedicated distress line: 08036684974.
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