Police dismiss two officers for assaulting tricycle operator in Delta

The two dismissed police officers had beat up a tricycle operator during an argument.

News Agency of Nigeria • September 17, 2021

DELTA CP, ARI MUHAMMED ALI, FCIA, psc+

Two officers have been dismissed from the Police by the Delta State Command for assaulting a civilian.

Spokesperson of the command, Bright Edafe, disclosed this in a statement made available to the press on Friday in Warri.

He said the dismissed officers are Felix Ebikabowei and Ndubuisi Abazie. Until their dismissal, they were attached to the ‘B’ Division, Warri.

According to him, the state police commissioner, Ari Ali, had ordered the dismissed policemen to remain in custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department.

Mr Edafe added that they would be charged to court as soon as the investigation was concluded.

He explained that the duo had on August 12 assaulted a tricycle operator, Brodrick Omesan, in Warri South local government area of the state.

“On August 12, after close of work, the officers conspired and engaged in Illegal duty on the Estate Roundabout, Warri.

“They accosted a Tricycle rider, one Omesan. An argument ensued between the policemen and the victim, and they allegedly pushed and beat him up, which led to serious injuries on his head.

“The victim was rushed to the hospital where he is currently receiving treatment.

“The CP immediately ordered the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigative Department for discreet and unbiased investigation.

“Investigation later revealed that the two officers have a case to answer on the serious assault on the victim, who is still in critical condition.

“The CP again ordered that they should face the internal disciplinary action, and the command provost was directed to try them for the offence of incivility to members of the public.

“Disobedience to lawful order contrary to paragraph E(iii) first schedule of the Police Act and Regulations 370, paragraph F of Police Act and Regulations CAP P.9 laws of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 2004.

“They were found guilty on both counts and have been dismissed from the force W.E.F September 14, 2021,” he said.

Mr Edafe said the commissioner condoled the victim’s family and assured the public of the command’s readiness to deal decisively with any erring officer.

He said Mr Ali warned officers of the command against abuse of human rights, incivility to the public, and unprofessional conduct in all areas.

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