The Cross River State Commissioner of Police, Ajo Ordue, has warned police officers against illegal and prolonged detention of suspects, extortion, harassment and other forms of unprofessional conduct.

Mr Ordue gave the warning on Friday during impromptu supervisory visits to Uwanse, Efut and Atakpa Police Divisions, which cover Calabar South.

The commissioner described the exercise as part of his “Management by Walking About” approach to policing, aimed at providing firsthand assessment of operational activities across police formations.

During the visits, Mr Ordue inspected facilities, interacted with personnel and assessed the operational activities and challenges confronting the three divisions.

He directed police commanders to ensure that arrests and detentions were properly documented and handled strictly in accordance with the law and established procedures.

Mr Ordue also warned officers against extortion, harassment and other conduct capable of undermining public confidence in the police and damaging the reputation of the force.

He stressed the need for personnel to discharge their duties with integrity, professionalism and respect for the fundamental rights of citizens, noting that effective policing required public trust and confidence.

The commissioner charged area commanders, divisional police officers and heads of formations to strengthen supervision and take responsibility for the conduct of personnel under their command.

According to him, the impromptu supervisory visits are designed to identify operational challenges, assess the welfare and performance of personnel and improve service delivery across the state.

Mr Ordue said the supervisory exercise would continue across Cross River as part of efforts to build a disciplined, responsive and community-oriented police command.

The state police spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said the approach would strengthen effective supervision and discipline within the command.

(NAN)