Police commissioner Hayatu Usman says bail is free, cautioning police officers in Gombe against receiving money for bail from suspects.

Mr Usman, who assumed office as the 22nd police commissioner in Gombe, stated this at a news conference on Tuesday. He said it was an offence to give or receive money for bail.

Mr Usman said the command had put in place measures to ensure that no money was received from any suspects for bail in police stations across Gombe.

The police chief said, “The police have zero tolerance for corruption and that it is in that regard that many officers have either been dismissed or have had their ranks reduced as punishment for engaging in corrupt practices. Bail is definitely free; it is an offence for somebody to give or receive money to secure bail, as both the giver and receiver are guilty of the offence.

“If you are asked to pay before bailing anyone, please don’t pay and don’t keep quiet; report such officers, and we will make an example of the concerned officer. I have made it clear to my officers that corruption has no place in the police.”

He added, “I have warned my DPOs and HoDs in that regard, and anyone caught will not be spared.”

Mr Usman also cautioned policemen against uncivil acts when dealing with the public, adding that the command would ensure that the rights of the people were not violated.

“I urge all personnel of the command to eschew corruption and act of indiscipline; the command under my watch will deal with any member of the force caught in accordance with laid down procedures,” the police commissioner explained.

Mr Usman said that he plans to strengthen community-based policing to ensure crime prevention. He also revealed plans to overhaul crime prevention machinery, strengthen intelligence gathering and take proactive measures to stem the rising crimes in Gombe.

(NAN)