Delta CP Orders Crackdown on Police Extortion, Illegal Checkpoints

The Delta State Commissioner of Police, Yemi Oyeniyi, has issued a firm directive mandating zero tolerance for extortion and the dismantling of illegal checkpoints, as part of efforts to enforce discipline and accountability within the command.

Speaking in Asaba during a high-level meeting with Area Commanders, Tactical Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers, the CP charged senior officers to take full responsibility for activities under their jurisdictions. The session focused on strengthening oversight and boosting operational efficiency across the state.

Oyeniyi warned personnel against interfering in civil matters, particularly land disputes, unless they involve clear criminal elements. He also prohibited arrest by proxy and stressed that only individuals directly connected to alleged offences should be taken into custody. Officers were further directed to adopt intelligence-driven policing, improve community relations, and ensure rapid response to emergencies.

He cautioned against poorly executed raids and weak investigations, noting that such lapses erode public trust and weaken prosecutions. Reiterating his stance, the CP made it clear that any officer found involved in extortion or unlawful roadblocks would face decisive disciplinary action, while leaders would be held accountable for failures within their ranks.