Matilda Omonaiye/
The Bayelsa State Commissioner of Police, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, has ordered the arrest of police officers captured in a viral video allegedly assaulting a tricycle (keke) rider in Yenagoa, the state capital.
The footage, which has continued to trend across social media platforms, showed the rider standing beside his tricycle while lamenting that some policemen had been chasing him. He was heard saying he had earlier explained to the officers that he was unwell and on his way to seek medical attention.
Moments later, the officers reportedly arrived at the scene and initially confronted a resident who was recording the incident, ordering the person to stop filming and insisting that there was no right to record them.
The video then showed the officers turning on the tricycle rider, who could be heard pleading with them and promising to “bring the money.”
One of the officers was seen threatening to punch him before shoving him to the ground.
The policemen were also heard issuing threats as they assaulted him.
The footage further captured the officers forcing the rider into a nearby bush, where he was allegedly repeatedly beaten, stomped on with boots and struck with a tyre, before the officers left the area.
After they departed, the visibly injured rider was seen explaining what happened to residents who witnessed the incident. He reiterated that he was sick and had told the officers he had no money.
A voice off-camera suggested the assault may have been linked to issues surrounding the rider’s driver’s licence, while the victim also alleged that the officers removed items from his tricycle, including tyres.
Reacting to the incident, the Bayelsa State Police Command described the officers’ conduct as unacceptable and contrary to policing standards.
Bayelsa State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Musa Mohammed, stated: “The attention of the Bayelsa State Police Command has been drawn to a viral video making the rounds on social media platforms, allegedly showing Police officers assaulting a tricycle (keke) driver.”
It added that CP Edebor condemned the act in strong terms.
“The Commissioner of Police, Bayelsa State Command, CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor, psc, IICFIP, foosi, has condemned the act in strong terms, describing it as unacceptable and contrary to professional policing standards. He reiterates that the Command does not tolerate any form of human rights violation, unprofessional conduct or brutality.”
The command said it had taken immediate action against the officers involved.
“The officers involved have been arrested and disciplinary proceedings has since commenced in accordance with the provisions of the Police Act and other extant regulations.”
CP Iyamah also assured residents of the command’s commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and ensuring professional policing across the state.
“CP Iyamah Daniel Edebor reiterates the command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of the rights and safety of all citizens while ensuring lawful and professional policing across Bayelsa State.”
The police urged members of the public to remain calm and continue to support efforts to maintain peace and order in Bayelsa.
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