Kaduna State Police Command has commenced investigations into a viral video, showing some police officers allegedly conducting stop-and-search operations and extorting money from motorists and cyclists.

In a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Mansir Hassan, the Commissioner of Police, Rabiu Muhammad, ordered that the officers involved be immediately identified and invited for a full-scale investigation. Those found culpable will be sanctioned appropriately.

The statement said the command wished to clarify that routine roadblocks and stop-and-search operations had been curtailed, except where there was credible intelligence regarding the movement of criminals, arms or other prohibited items.

“The command, however, notes that the route in the video has previously been used by criminal elements. It is a suburb of Millennium City, and it was on the same route that police operatives previously recovered 20 AK-47 rifles.

“Notwithstanding these security concerns, the commissioner has made it clear that no police officer is permitted to use legitimate security duties as an avenue for extortion, harassment or any form of misconduct. Any officer found culpable will face disciplinary and legal action,” he said.

The commissioner commended members of the public for their vigilance and urged them to continue reporting unprofessional conduct by police officers.

Complaints can be made to the police Complaint Response Unit (CRU) on 09049498983, 08075391105 or 07039675856.

The command said it remained committed to professional policing, accountability and the protection of the rights and safety of all residents in the state.