Police Detain ASP Over Viral Threat Against People Filming Him

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Newton Isokpehi, after a viral video showed him threatening to shoot anyone who attempted to record him while on duty.

The video, which circulated widely on social media on Wednesday, captured the officer speaking in Pidgin English and warning that he would “clear everybody down” if anyone filmed him during official operations. He also threatened that any superior officer who approved the filming of police personnel would be responsible for burying those he claimed he would kill.

The clip sparked widespread outrage across social media platforms, including 𝕏 and Instagram, before it was later removed from his TikTok account.

Following the backlash, the officer released another video apologising for his remarks, explaining that he made the statements out of frustration.

In a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, the command confirmed that the officer had been arrested and disciplinary procedures had begun.

According to the statement, the police swiftly identified and apprehended the officer immediately after reviewing the viral footage.

“The officer involved has been identified as Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the command.

“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have been initiated against him,” the statement said.

The command also disclosed that Isokpehi had undergone a drug test as part of investigations into the incident.

“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to help establish all surrounding circumstances and ensure a thorough and transparent process,” the statement added.

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemned the officer’s behaviour, describing it as unprofessional and unacceptable.

He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force would not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any conduct capable of damaging public confidence in the force.

The police command assured residents of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public and that any officer found guilty would face appropriate sanctions in line with police regulations and the law.

The command also reminded 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 organisations, and social media users for drawing attention to the incident, noting that public feedback plays an important role in promoting accountability and improving policing standards.

Residents were also encouraged to continue reporting incidents or conduct capable of threatening public safety and undermining confidence in security agencies.