The Commissioner of Police in the Federal Capital Territory, CP Ahmed Sanusi, has directed police officers under his command to stop keeping suspects in custody beyond the legally permitted period without obtaining the necessary court authorisation.
Sanusi issued the warning while addressing officers on proper procedures for handling suspects and case files, according to a video shared by TV Platinum on X on Wednesday.
The FCT police chief said officers who have reasons to keep a suspect beyond 24 hours must obtain a court warrant approving the continued detention.
He also ordered officers to ensure that case files are properly prepared and reviewed without unnecessary delays.
“Avoid prolonged detention. If you have somebody that you got detained beyond 24 hours, get a warrant for such person. Quickly tidy up your cases, make sure your case files are well vetted,” Sanusi said.
Police told to protect suspects’ rights
Sanusi further directed officers to document confessional statements through video where appropriate, depending on the circumstances and sensitivity of individual cases.
He also reminded officers that people held in police custody should retain access to legal representation, family members and necessary medication.
The commissioner stressed that suspects should be taken before a court within a reasonable period, warning officers against leaving detainees in custody for several days while investigations and case files remain incomplete.
He criticised officers who equate prolonged detention with effective policing, describing unnecessary delays in concluding cases as a failure to perform their duties.
“It does not show that you are working by clustering yourself with suspects,” Sanusi said, while questioning why an officer would keep someone for five or six days without completing the case file or preparing to charge the suspect.
Sanusi promises protection for officers who follow the law
The commissioner also assured officers that the FCT Police Command would support those who properly carry out their duties and follow due process.
Sanusi said officers acting within the law would be protected from intimidation or interference while handling their responsibilities.
“If you are doing the right thing, we won’t have to beg, we will proudly stand,” he said.
However, he made it clear that the command’s support would depend on officers following established procedures.
Sanusi’s directive places emphasis on timely investigations, proper case-file management and respect for the rights of suspects in police custody.