Police Demote Officer and Reprimand Two Others Over Assault Incident in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has taken disciplinary action against three officers involved in the assault of a road traveller along the Owerri-Aba Expressway. Sergeant Anayo Ekezie has been demoted to the rank of Corporal, while Inspectors Ofem Obongha and Obinna Okereke received reprimands for failing to properly supervise the incident.

Police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye confirmed the actions in a statement released on Wednesday night. The three officers, all from the Safer Highway unit, were found guilty of violating the Police Force’s code of conduct and human rights standards.

“The Imo State Police Command, in response to a viral video showing police officers assaulting a man along the Owerri–Aba Road, identified the officers involved and took disciplinary action,” Okoye said.

Ekezie was found guilty of using his issued smoke gunner in the assault, resulting in his demotion. Meanwhile, Inspectors Obongha and Okereke were reprimanded for not exercising proper supervision, which allowed the misconduct to take place.

Imo State Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma condemned the officers’ actions, reaffirming the police’s commitment to upholding the code of conduct and human rights standards. He also promised swift action against any police misconduct.

The Imo Police Command has urged citizens to report any incidents of police misconduct to the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), X-Squad unit, or through designated phone numbers, emphasizing their commitment to transparency and protecting citizens’ rights.