The Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, CP Emmanuel Olugbemiga Adesina, in a press released has issued a stern warning to all police personnel within the state regarding the unauthorized search of citizens’ mobile phones. This warning follows reports that some officers have been stopping individuals on the road, seizing their mobile devices, and accessing them without following proper procedures. These actions are allegedly being justified by claims of investigating internet fraud.
CP Adesina emphasized that such actions are a violation of the law and the rights of citizens. He reminded all officers that investigations related to cyber crimes must adhere strictly to the Cyber Crime Prohibition and Prevention Act of 2015. This act requires law enforcement officers to obtain an ex parte order from a judge before making arrests or collecting electronic evidence in cyber crime cases.
The Commissioner has directed all Divisional Police Officers, Tactical Team Commanders, Patrol and Guard officers, particularly those in the Anti-Cyber Crime Unit, to comply with these legal requirements. He stressed that any violations of human rights or other unethical practices by the police would not be tolerated and would be dealt with accordingly.
CP Adesina called on the public to report any misconduct by police officers in Plateau State through the following contact numbers:
Plateau State Complaint Response Unit (CRU):
– 08032894787 (Assistant Commissioner of Police in Charge IGP-X Squad)
– 08060545670 (PPRO)
– 08037681026
– 08067884627
– 08069638786
– 08066709795
Police Control Room Emergency Numbers:
– 07059473022
– 08038907662
– 08075391844
– 09053872296
