Police Ask VeryDarkMan to Prove Checkpoint Kidnap Claims
The Nigeria Police Force has invited social media activist Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence backing his allegation that some police officers at checkpoints collude with kidnappers and bandits.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement on Thursday, saying the police had taken note of remarks made by the activist at the ongoing Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
VeryDarkMan had alleged that some police officers stationed at checkpoints along major highways identify wealthy travellers and pass information about their identities and movements to kidnappers, who subsequently target them for ransom.
The allegation has drawn a strong reaction from the police, who described the claim as serious, unsubstantiated and capable of damaging public confidence in the force.
The police consequently asked Otse to present evidence supporting his claims, particularly any proof that officers at checkpoints identify wealthy individuals and transmit their information to kidnappers.
The Force said any evidence submitted by the activist would be treated with urgency and subjected to a thorough investigation.
It also urged members of the public with credible information on police misconduct to report such cases through appropriate channels rather than relying solely on public allegations.
The police maintained that officers deployed to checkpoints across the country are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activities and protecting citizens.
According to the Force, police personnel regularly confront kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements, with several officers killed or injured during attacks on police stations, formations and operational assets.
It, however, acknowledged that any officer found to have compromised his or her duties would face internal disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Force further cautioned against blanket accusations against its personnel, warning that unverified claims could demoralise officers and undermine public trust in the institution.
It called on Nigerians to distinguish between legitimate criticism that promotes accountability and unsubstantiated allegations that could negatively affect public confidence and national security.
