Why Police Have Right To Check Phones – Deputy PRO
THECONSCIENCE NG reports that the Deputy Force Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Police, CSP Victor Isuku, has stated that operatives can search an individual’s phone, especially when such a person is suspected of involvement in cybercrime.
He also said police have the right to break down doors or enter through the ceiling to arrest an uncooperative suspect in a case.
Isuku disclosed this during an interactive session with the public at the premiere of the movie “Greatest Oath (The Rescue)” by Ocean Portal, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Force.
The Deputy Force PRO, while noting that checkpoints are set up to check reported car theft and not to witch-hunt the public, emphasised that the public should not only provide information that can lead to the arrest of criminals but also ensure they do not interfere with the arrest of a suspect.
Isuku, who said the act could lead to the arrest of such an individual, urged the public not to resort to self-help by throwing tantrums when they feel an officer has infringed upon their rights.
He urged the public to report the matter to the police authorities, who will investigate the matter and mete out punishment to erring officers.
He added that bail is free, urging the public to read the content of the bail form before appending their signature, noting that the Inspector General frowns upon unethical practices by his officers.
Isuku said, “There are situations where a policeman can search your phone. If you are suspected of committing a cybercrime, your phone will be examined. The police will not just stop you on the road and begin to search you; it is unethical. The IG frowns at such unethical practice.
“The police can break down the door of an uncooperative suspect, enter his apartment through the roof or get into his premises by scaling the fence. Don’t hinder the police from arresting a suspect, as you will also be arrested.”
He identified funding as a major problem affecting all institutions in the country, noting that the public can help provide basic logistics equipment to the police, instead of giving them money under any guise.
Ocean Portal boss, Dickson Oviase, said that the production was inspired by the EndSARS protest, which led to the destruction of life and properties in many states of the federation.
He said, despite the hostilities, the police still carried out their duties, disclaiming insinuation that they were on strike during the protest.
He added, “The movie is inspired and birthed from the outcry of the EndSARS saga. The police could not function in many states. The consciousness of the necessity of the presence of the Nigeria Police pervaded everywhere.
“For once, the vacuum of the absence of police in our society stared us in the face. Truth be told, there’s a need to show love to the police and vice versa, as it will be chaotic if the police embark on an indefinite strike. Let’s come together and enhance community policing. God bless Nigeria.”
