Police Arrest Officer Over Threat To Shoot Anyone Recording Him On Duty

 

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested the police officer seen in a viral video threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while on duty.

The officer, identified as ASP Newton Isokpehi, an Assistant Superintendent of Police attached to the Anambra State Command, is currently facing disciplinary proceedings following public outrage over the incident.

In a statement issued on Thursday by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, the command confirmed that the officer was immediately identified and arrested after the video surfaced online.

ASP Isokpehi sparked reactions across social media after a video showed him threatening to “clear everybody down” if anyone filmed him during official duty. Speaking in Pidgin English, the officer also threatened superior officers who permitted the filming of policemen.

The viral clip circulated widely on X and Instagram before it was later deleted from his TikTok account. The officer later released an apology video, claiming his comments were made out of frustration.

According to the police command, disciplinary action has already commenced against the officer in line with the ethical standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

The command also disclosed that ASP Newton Isokpehi has undergone a drug test as part of ongoing investigations to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure transparency in the disciplinary process.

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemned the officer’s conduct, describing it as unprofessional, unacceptable, and capable of undermining public trust in the police force.

The Anambra State Police Command assured residents and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public, adding that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions according to police regulations and the law.

The command further urged police officers to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their duties, especially amid increasing public scrutiny of security agencies.

In addition, the police commended members of the public, civil society groups, and social media users for drawing attention to the incident and contributing to accountability and improved policing in Nigeria.