The Plateau State Police Command has issued a stern, unequivocal warning to its officers regarding the persistent and unlawful practice of searching the mobile phones of citizens during routine stop-and-search operations.
Commissioner of Police Bassey Ewah, speaking through the command’s spokesperson, Alabo Alfred, clarified the legal stance of the force. He explicitly stated that no police officer possesses the legal authority to stop individuals on public roads and demand access to their private mobile devices without a valid court warrant. This directive serves as a significant intervention aimed at curbing police misconduct and protecting the digital privacy of residents across the state.
The command emphasized that the professional standard for police conduct does not include the invasive inspection of personal data. Consequently, the Plateau State Police has advised residents to remain vigilant and politely resist any such unauthorized demands.
How to Report Misconduct
Citizens who encounter officers attempting to conduct illegal phone searches are encouraged to document the incident—if it is safe to do so—and report the officers through the official complaint channels. Upholding these rights is a collective effort; by reporting unprofessional conduct, the public helps the command enforce accountability and maintain the rule of law.
This directive highlights the ongoing commitment of the Plateau State Police Command to professionalize its force and ensure that the fundamental rights of every citizen are respected. The police remain tasked with protecting the public, and that mission must be carried out within the boundaries of the Nigerian Constitution and existing legal frameworks.
