police challenge VeryDarkMan to provide evidence over alleged collusion with kidnappers
The Nigeria Police Force has challenged social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence backing his allegation that some police officers at highway checkpoints pass information about travellers to kidnappers and bandits.
The allegation was reportedly made by VDM while speaking at the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) Conference in Port Harcourt.
In a statement, the Police Force described the claim as serious and unsubstantiated, stressing that officers deployed to checkpoints are tasked with preventing crime, detecting criminal activities and protecting motorists and other road users.
The Force said police personnel routinely confront kidnappers, terrorists and other violent criminals, with some officers losing their lives in attacks on checkpoints, stations and other security formations.
It, however, acknowledged that individual officers found to have compromised their duties would face disciplinary action and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The Police therefore invited VDM to submit any evidence supporting his claims, particularly allegations that officers identify wealthy travellers and relay their movements to criminal groups to facilitate kidnappings.
The Force assured that any credible information provided would be treated urgently and thoroughly investigated.
It also urged members of the public to report suspected police misconduct through appropriate channels, while cautioning against spreading unverified allegations that could undermine public confidence in security institutions.
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