The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has cautioned residents against offering money or any form of inducement to police officers while they are performing their lawful duties.

In a notice shared on X.com on Monday, the command stressed that such acts are unlawful and could interfere with the discharge of officers’ responsibilities.

The post read, “It is unlawful to give our officers money or any form of inducement while they are performing their duty. Let them discharge their responsibilities diligently, without interference.”

Citizens were also encouraged to report any unprofessional conduct by officers through the Complaint Response Unit or the FCT Police emergency line.

“The Nigeria Police Force is committed to serving you with integrity. Your cooperation is vital; together, we can build a safer society,” the post added.

The warning comes amid longstanding concerns about bribery and extortion involving security operatives across the country.

Reports have documented cases where motorists and residents were pressured into giving “tips” or “settlements” to police officers at checkpoints and during routine patrols.

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has also reiterated the Force’s zero tolerance for extortion, impunity, and corruption.

Several incidents in recent years have led to disciplinary actions against erring officers.

PUNCH Online reported in May 2024 that an Inspector attached to the Imo State Command was demoted after he was caught on camera collecting bribes from motorists along the Owerri-Onitsha express road.

Similarly, in April 2025, the Nigeria Police Force condemned the conduct of its officers captured in a viral video receiving money from a Chinese national, describing their actions as “unprofessional and unethical” and initiated disciplinary proceedings against the officers involved.

While cases of misconduct have sparked outrage, there have also been instances where officers rejected bribes.

In February 2025, policemen attached to the Imo State Police Command arrested two suspects in connection with two separate child trafficking cases after rejecting a N1 million bribe offer.

Also, in August, a police officer in charge of the Special Weapons and Tactics Unit, Ebong Thompson, reportedly rejected the sum of N800,000 offered to him to secure the release of an armed robbery suspect and cover up the crime. (The PUNCH)

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