Imo CP orders arrest of four operatives over manhandling of drug suspect
The Imo Police Command has responded to a viral video showing a confrontation during the arrest of a young man accused of drug trafficking.
In the video, Prince Amaechi, 32, was handcuffed with a two-month old baby in his arm.
Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma, who ordered arrest of the four operatives responsible for the operation, condemned the actions.
The incident occurred on September 16, 2024, at Ovoro-Uzomiri Umuosu, Naze in Owerri North LGA of Imo State.
The four operatives of the Command’s Anti-Narcotics Unit – Sgt Patrick Nwangbo, Cpl God’swill Okechukwu, Cpl Justice Nnorom, and Cpl Goodluck Iwuagwu who carried out the operation have been arrested and waiting orderly room trial.
Confirming the incident on Saturday, the police spokesman, Henry Okoye said the operatives were executing an arrest warrant for Prince Amaechi, 32, linked to conspiracy and drug trafficking.
According to ASP Okoye: “The incident occurred on September 16, 2024, during an operation at Ovoro-Uzomiri Umuosu, Naze in Owerri North LGA of Imo State. Four operatives of the Command’s Anti-Narcotics Unit – Sgt Patrick Nwangbo, Cpl God’swill Okechukwu, Cpl Justice Nnorom, and Cpl Goodluck Iwuagwu – were executing an arrest warrant for Prince Amaechi, 32, linked to conspiracy and drug trafficking.
“The situation should have been handled with greater discretion and professionalism,” Okoye stated, acknowledging that the suspect resisted arrest, leading to the escalation captured in the video.”
While condemning actions of its operatives, the police spokesman assured the public of a thorough investigation.
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He said: “The operatives involved have been apprehended for interrogation, and the Commissioner of Police has directed the case to be transferred to the IGP X-Squad Imo State Command for thorough investigation. The officers will also face an orderly room trial pending the outcome of the investigation.
“The Imo State Police Command is dedicated to transparency and will provide updates as appropriate to keep the members of the public informed,” Okoye assured.
“We urge the public to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation while we conduct our investigation.”
