The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a police officer seen in a viral video threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while on duty, confirming that disciplinary action has already begun against him.
The officer, identified as ASP Newton Isokpehi, came under heavy criticism on Wednesday after a video surfaced online showing him threatening to “clear everybody down,” including passersby, if anyone filmed him during official operations.
According to a statement released on Thursday by Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu, the command acted swiftly after the video gained attention on social media.
“Following a prompt review of the video, the Command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the Command.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement said.
In the widely circulated clip, the officer, speaking in Pidgin English, warned that he would shoot anyone recording him and also threatened superior officers who approved such recordings, saying they would be responsible for burying the people he claimed he would kill.
The video spread rapidly across platforms including X and Instagram before it was eventually removed from his TikTok page. Following the backlash, the officer released another video apologising for his remarks, explaining that he acted out of frustration.
The police command also disclosed that ASP Isokpehi had been subjected to a drug test as part of ongoing investigations into the incident.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” the statement added.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu strongly condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unacceptable and contrary to the professional standards expected within the force.
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the conduct displayed by the officer in the video and reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the statement read.
The command assured residents of Anambra State and Nigerians generally that the outcome of the disciplinary proceedings would be made public and that any officer found guilty would face the appropriate sanctions.
“The Anambra State Police Command further assures Ndi Anambra and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public and that any officer found culpable will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and police regulations,” it stated.
The police also reminded officers to maintain professionalism, emotional control and respect while carrying out their duties, especially amid growing public scrutiny of security agencies.
In addition, the command appreciated citizens, civil society groups and social media users for bringing attention to the incident and encouraging accountability within the police force.
“The Command appreciates members of the public, civil society groups, and social media users who continue to assist the Police with credible information capable of improving service delivery and accountability.
“Residents are encouraged to continue reporting incidents or behaviours capable of undermining public peace, safety, and confidence in security agencies,” the statement added.
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