Anambra Police Arrest ASP Newton Isokpehi After Video Threats Go Viral

The Anambra State Police Command has identified and arrested Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Newton Isokpehi of the Anambra State Command following outrage over a viral video in which he threatened people while on duty.

The disclosure was made on Thursday in a statement by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu.

The video, which circulated on social media on Wednesday, showed Isokpehi threatening to “clear everybody down,” including bystanders, if anyone attempted to film him while he carried out official duties. In the video, he also warned that any senior officer who authorised the filming of policemen could be made to “bury” the citizens he claimed he would kill.

Police said the video was quickly brought to their attention, and that the command carried out a prompt review.

“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,” the statement said.

The police added that internal disciplinary proceedings have been activated against the officer in line with the ethical code and disciplinary standards of the Nigeria Police Force.

As part of the investigation, Isokpehi has also undergone a drug test to help establish the surrounding circumstances of the incident.

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu condemned the behaviour as unacceptable and inconsistent with the standards of the Nigeria Police Force, saying the force is a disciplined institution that will not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office, incitement, or any unprofessional conduct that could undermine public trust.

The command assured residents and the public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public and that any officer found culpable would face appropriate sanctions under police regulations and the law.

Finally, the police urged officers to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful during their duties, and commended the public, civil society groups, and social media users for reporting the incident and providing credible information that supports accountability.