The Ebonyi State Police Command has detained officers accused of assaulting a resident in Ohaukwu Local Government Area and launched an investigation into the incident, pledging disciplinary action against any personnel found culpable.
The action came barely 48 hours after images of the injured victim circulated widely on social media, triggering public outrage and renewed concerns over alleged police brutality in the state.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Command confirmed that it had identified and detained the officers involved in what it described as an altercation with a civilian in Ohaukwu LGA.
According to the statement, the Commissioner of Police, Hope Okafor, had ordered the immediate transfer of the officers to the Command Headquarters, while the State Criminal Investigation Department commenced a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident.
The Command also expressed sympathy for the victim, who is receiving treatment at Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki, and assured the public that the matter would be handled professionally and without bias.
Reaffirming its stance against misconduct, the Police Command said it maintains a zero-tolerance policy on brutality, indiscipline and any conduct capable of bringing the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute.
It stressed that any officer found culpable after the investigation would face strict disciplinary measures in accordance with the law.
The statement added the Command’s commitment to protecting the fundamental rights of all citizens and urged members of the public to remain calm while the investigation runs its course.