AIG bars vigilante groups from operating detention camps

Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Zone 5 Benin City Edo state,  Isaac Akinmoyede,  has cautioned states security outfits otherwise known as vigilantes from maintaining detention camps.

This was just as the AIG called on the state Commissioner of Police to begin the process of profiling all members of the Edo State Security Network  in order to avoid a situation where criminals infiltrate their ranks. 

Akinmoyede said all suspects arrested should be immediately handed over to the Police for diligent investigation and possible prosecution.

The AIG stated this amidst reported unlawful conduct of some personnel of Edo state security network. 

He warned that the Police will not hesitate to arrest and prosecute any vigilante member who involves himself in illegal duty or other criminal activities.

This was contained in a statement issued by the zone 5 spokesman, DSP Tijani Momoh.

The statement noted that the AIG read the riot act during a meeting on Tuesday, June 15, 2021 with leaders and members of the Edo State Security Network in Edo state.

The spokesman explained that the meeting was sequel to an unfortunate incident of murder, arson and sporadic shooting at Ugonoba community in Uhunmwonde local government area of Edo state. 

According to him, “On Sunday 13th June, 2021 the police received information that the house of the leader of Ugonoba community was set ablaze by hoodlums over the murder of a member of the said community.

He said: “Police Operatives from Okhauhe Division were immediately mobilised to the scene. 

“While the Divisional Police Officer was addressing the aggrieved youths of the community, members of the vigilantes operating in the area arrived in two Sienna buses and a Mercedes Benz car and started shooting sporadically.

“In the process, the DPO, two other policemen and an unspecified number of civilians sustained gunshot injuries.

“The AIG has directed that the case be thoroughly investigated and all those involved in the shooting incident be brought to book.

The AIG however acknowledged the contributions of the vigilante members in aiding the Police in the fight against criminality and charged them to continue to carry out their duties professionally.