The Anambra State Police Command has taken into custody the officer who became a viral sensation across social media after he threatened to shoot and kill anyone filming him while on duty.
The command confirmed who the officer is and announced that internal disciplinary measures have already been launched against him.
In a press release issued on Thursday—signed and made public by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu—the command named the officer as Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi, who is attached to the Anambra State Command.
Isokpehi sparked massive public anger on Wednesday when a video clip emerged online showing him threatening to “clear everybody down”, including onlookers, if anyone dared to record him while he was performing his duties.
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Speaking in Pidgin English while staring straight into the camera, he also swore that any superior officer who supported citizens filming police officers would end up burying the people he promised to kill.
The footage spread like wildfire across X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram before it was pulled down from his TikTok account. He later uploaded a second video to apologize, claiming that his initial outburst was fueled by frustration.
According to the press release, the command took immediate action as soon as they spotted the viral footage.
“Following a prompt review of the video, the Command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the Command.
“In line with the disciplinary standards and ethical code of the Nigeria Police Force, internal disciplinary proceedings have since been activated against the officer,” the statement read.
The command further revealed that Isokpehi has been made to undergo a drug test to help investigators figure out exactly what led to the disturbing incident.
“As part of the ongoing investigation, the officer has also been subjected to a drug test to aid the Command in establishing all surrounding circumstances and ensuring a thorough and transparent process,” it stated.
CP Orutugu strongly denounced the policeman’s behavior, stating that such actions go against everything the police force stands for and damage the public’s trust in the law enforcement agency.
“The Commissioner of Police strongly condemns the conduct displayed by the officer in the video and reiterates that the Nigeria Police Force is a disciplined institution that will not condone misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any form of unprofessional behaviour capable of undermining public trust and confidence,” the statement read.
Regarding what happens next with the case, the command gave a strong guarantee that the final results of the trial would be shared openly with the public.
“The Anambra State Police Command further assures Ndi Anambra and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process will be made public and that any officer found culpable will face appropriate sanctions in accordance with the law and police regulations,” it said.
The police leadership also used the opportunity to send a clear warning to all personnel regarding how they must behave when dealing with citizens.
“The Command also uses this opportunity to remind officers and men of the Command to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful duties, especially in this era where actions and conduct are constantly subjected to public scrutiny,” it stated.
Finally, the command expressed gratitude to the public and human rights organizations for exposing the clip, noting that highlighting such behavior helps keep the police accountable.
“The Command appreciates members of the public, civil society groups, and social media users who continue to assist the Police with credible information capable of improving service delivery and accountability.
“Residents are encouraged to continue reporting incidents or behaviours capable of undermining public peace, safety, and confidence in security agencies,” the statement read.
