The Commissioner of Police in Plateau State, Bassey Ewah, has warned officers and men of the state command against stopping citizens to search the contents of their mobile phones without a valid court warrant, declaring the practice unlawful.
Ewah, in a statement issued on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Alabo Alfred, said no police officer has the legal authority to compel any citizen to surrender a mobile phone for inspection during routine road checks without judicial authorisation.
The police commissioner stressed that the directive was part of the command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.
He urged residents of the state to firmly but politely refuse any unlawful demand for access to their phones and promptly report erring officers through the command’s established complaint channels.
Reaffirming the command’s resolve to uphold the rule of law, Ewah said the Plateau State Police Command would not tolerate acts of misconduct or abuse of office by its personnel.
“The Plateau State Police Command remains committed to protecting the lives, property and constitutional rights of all residents. We will continue to ensure effective policing in accordance with the law and global best practices,” he said.
The commissioner reiterated that officers must discharge their duties within the confines of the law, warning that violations of citizens’ rights would attract appropriate disciplinary measures.
