Police Ask VeryDarkMan For Evidence On Checkpoint Kidnapping Claims

The Nigeria Police Force has asked social media personality Martins Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan, to provide evidence for his claim that some officers at checkpoints help kidnappers identify wealthy travellers.

The police said the allegation, reportedly made during the Nigerian Bar Association conference in Port Harcourt, was serious enough to require proof. They rejected the claim as unsubstantiated and said broad accusations against officers could damage public trust if they are not backed by evidence.

The reports said VeryDarkMan alleged that officers on major highways identify people who appear wealthy and pass their details or movement plans to kidnappers. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said the police wanted Otse to submit any material that supports the claim so it can be investigated.

The police also defended officers deployed at checkpoints, saying they are expected to prevent crime, detect criminal activity and protect travellers. The force said many officers face attacks from the same criminal groups named in the allegation, including kidnappers and bandits.

At the same time, the police said any officer found to have compromised his or her duty would face internal discipline and the law. It urged members of the public with credible evidence of misconduct to use official reporting channels so complaints can be investigated.

The case now turns on whether Otse submits evidence and whether the police open a formal inquiry into any named officers or checkpoint operations.

Sources: Punch, Vanguard, Channels TV