Police Invite VDM to Substantiate Claims Officers Aid Kidnappers
The Nigeria Police Force has invited social critic Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence supporting his allegation that some police officers at highway checkpoints leak travellers’ information to kidnappers.
VDM made the allegation at the Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Port Harcourt, claiming that checkpoint officers identify wealthy travellers and allegedly pass information about their movements to kidnappers for ransom.
Reacting in a statement on Thursday, August 27, Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, described the allegation as serious and unsubstantiated, insisting that police officers deployed on highways are responsible for preventing crime and protecting motorists.
The Force said its personnel routinely confront kidnappers and other violent criminals, noting that several officers have been attacked and killed while police stations and operational assets have also come under attack.
The police spokesperson therefore urged VDM to produce any evidence in his possession, assuring that credible information on alleged misconduct would be thoroughly investigated.
The Force also encouraged members of the public with evidence of wrongdoing by police officers to report through appropriate channels rather than relying solely on public allegations.
