Police Constable faces trial for threatening residents with gun in Edo

Edo State’s Commissioner of Police, Mr. Funsho Adegboye, has initiated an orderly room trial for Police Constable Prince Chima following allegations of him threatening individuals with a firearm at their home. The incident, captured in a viral video on the X social media platform, prompted swift action from the authorities.

In a statement released by the command’s spokesperson, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, the CP ordered a thorough investigation into the matter leading to the apprehension of the officer.

“After observing a viral video on the X platform on April 7, 2024, depicting a young man in a blue T-shirt, black joggers’ trousers, and blue palm slippers menacingly brandishing an AK-47 rifle towards individuals at their residence, Commissioner of Police, CP Funsho Adegboye, mni, immediately initiated a discreet investigation,” the statement read.

“Following technical intelligence, the young man was apprehended, identified as Police Constable Prince Chima, attached to the Department of Operatives (DOP). He confirmed his identity as Force Number 534023 during interrogation,” SP Nwabuzor stated.

The spokesperson further disclosed that Chima, enlisted on January 10, 2020, and stationed at the South-South Deputy National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), recounted an altercation at NIPCO along Siluko Road where a civilian insulted him. Subsequently, Chima followed the individual to his residence where the confrontation captured in the video occurred.

The CP has directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the X-Squad Section to conduct a thorough investigation into the officer’s conduct. Additionally, Chima’s mental health status will be assessed by the command’s medical officer, and he will undergo an Orderly Room Trial disciplinary process.

SP Nwabuzor conveyed the CP’s appreciation to the individuals involved for their composed response to the situation and assured that appropriate measures would be taken against the erring officer.