Egbetokun: Officers escorting foreign hackers acted on illegal duty, IGP

The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has stated that police officers who were escorting the foreign hackers arrested for cybercrimes acted on illegal duty.

According to the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), Egbetokun on Monday during a workshop on standardizing criminal investigations, revealed that police officers involved in shielding foreign hackers have been arrested and detained.

Earlier on November 4, the Nigeria Police Force, announced the arrest of 130 suspects linked to high-level cybercrimes, hacking, and activities threatening national security.

The recent crackdown on cybercrime has led to the arrest of 130 suspects, including 113 foreign nationals, comprising 87 men and 26 women, primarily from China and Malaysia, and 17 Nigerian collaborators.

According to PUNCH, investigation reveals thatforeign cybercrime suspects had police protection before arrest.

In addition, Egbetokun clarified, stating that “the policemen involved were not officially deployed or assigned to protect these individuals. They were on illegal duty.”

The IGP made it clear that the officers who protected foreign nationals implicated in cybercrimes will face consequences.

He said “their commander has disowned them, emphasizing that these officers were acting outside their official duties.”

Egbetokun stated that “there are major businessmen, employers of labor, and individuals who have thousands of Nigerians in their organizations. These are the individuals that deserve protection,” he said.

“We consider providing police protection to high-profile individuals based on their societal impact and economic contributions. If something were to happen to them, it could have far-reaching consequences on the society.”

Besides, the IGP addressed the concern of police officers being assigned to individuals without legitimate security needs, disclosing that these officers were frequently deployed without official authorization.

He stated, “policemen attached to individuals without legitimate security needs were often not formally deployed by police authorities.”

“Instead, some were recruited off the streets. Action is being taken to address this issue.”

“To curb unauthorized police deployments, I directed that  officers found in such situations will be identified and their commanders held responsible, ensuring accountability and a reduction in incidents.”

Egbetokun warned against police escort misuse, stating, “we scrutinize requests, investigating to confirm eligibility and providing necessary security only to deserving individuals.”

“Police escorts are withdrawn immediately if misused, with consequences for entitled individuals who fail to use them responsibly.”

Egbetokun made it clear that the minors who were arrested weren’t detained for joining the #End Bad Governance protests, but rather for their involvement in looting and damaging public property.

“Following the President’s gracious pardon of the minors, I’d like to express my gratitude.”

“Nevertheless, I must correct the misconception that their arrest was tied to involvement in the End Bad Governance protests, this claim is entirely false.”

“We arrested criminals who hijacked the End Bad Governance protests to destroy property and commit arson. They don’t represent peaceful protesters.”

“It’s misleading to suggest that the 76 suspects arraigned in court were End Bad Governance protesters.”

“While protesting is a citizen’s right, we cannot tolerate looting, vandalism, and criminal activity. The police must intervene to prevent chaos and ensure public safety.”

Know about Egbetokun

Early Life and Education of Egbetokun

Kayode Egbetokun was born in Kwara State, Nigeria.

Police Career of Egbetokun

Egbetokun joined the Nigerian Police Force in 1987. He has served in various capacities, including Commissioner of Police, Lagos State, Commissioner of Police, Kogi State, Deputy Force Secretary, Force Headquarters, Abuja, Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG), Zone 8, and presently the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).

Egbetokun was appointed IGP by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. As IGP, he oversees national policing strategy, crime prevention and control, police reforms, and public safety and security.

Awards and Recognition

Egbetokun has received awards for his service, including Nigerian Police Medal for Gallantry Police Distinguished Service Medal.

Challenges and Controversies

As IGP, Egbetokun faces insecurity and terrorism, police brutality and human rights allegations, corruption within the force, and public trust and perception.

Reform Efforts

Egbetokun has initiated reforms, including community policing, police decentralization, training and capacity building, and anti-corruption measures.

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