By The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has disclosed that police officers found providing security for arrested foreign hackers were acting without official authorization.
On November 4, the Nigeria Police Force announced the arrest of 130 suspects involved in major cybercrime activities, including hacking and actions deemed threatening to national security. Among the suspects were 113 foreign nationals—87 men and 26 women—primarily from China and Malaysia, as well as 17 Nigerian collaborators. An investigation by The PUNCH revealed that these foreign suspects had been under police protection before their arrests.
Addressing the findings at a workshop on Monday, Egbetokun confirmed the unauthorized involvement of police officers and stated that those involved had been arrested and were now in detention. He clarified, “These policemen were on illegal duty. They were not formally deployed, and their commander has denied authorizing them for such assignments.” Egbetokun vowed to hold the officers accountable, emphasizing they would face appropriate disciplinary action.
Egbetokun acknowledged that while there are legitimate cases where high-profile individuals require police protection, the misuse of such services by unapproved individuals is under strict review. He stated, “Some businessmen and VIPs, given their contribution to the economy, deserve police escorts. But we’re also tackling instances where officers are attached to people without formal approval. Any officer found engaging in this will be traced and dealt with.”
He also warned against the misuse of officially sanctioned police escorts, stressing that those who misuse such privileges will have their protection withdrawn immediately.
On a related note, Egbetokun refuted claims that minors were arrested for participating in #EndBadGovernance protests, clarifying that they were detained for looting and damaging public property. He emphasized that the police only apprehended individuals involved in criminal activities, not peaceful protesters. “It’s a false narrative that those detained were protesters. We respect the right to protest but will not tolerate criminal acts disguised under protests,” he stated.
The IGP assured that these measures are part of broader reforms to curb abuses within the police force and ensure accountability.
