A senior police officer with the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit in Akwa Ibom State, CSP Ebong Thompson, has rejected a bribe of N800,000 offered to secure the release of an armed robbery suspect and to suppress evidence.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command confirmed the development in a statement issued on Friday,by the Public Relations Officer, DSP Timfon John.
According to the statement, the main suspect, 53-year-old David Samuel Isaac, was apprehended after a Samsung smartphone, reportedly stolen at gunpoint, was traced to his possession.
Investigations revealed that Isaac has a history of similar crimes, having previously been arrested and charged to court, but allegedly returned to criminal activity after his release.
In a bid to obstruct justice, a second suspect, identified as Emmanuel Mendie Peter, reportedly approached the SWAT office and offered N800,000 in cash to secure Isaac’s release. CSP Thompson rejected the offer, and Peter was immediately taken into custody.
“The money was intended to secure the release of an armed robbery suspect and also cover up the crime,” DSP John stated.
READ ALSO: Police Probe Officers Over N500 Bribe, Harassment of Delta Poly SUG President
Both suspects are currently in police custody and will be charged accordingly.
Commissioner of Police, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, has commended CSP Thompson and his team with official commendation letters, praising their professionalism and integrity. He used the occasion to caution the public against attempts to interfere with police investigations.
At the command’s end-of-month briefing, CP Azare said, “Officers like CSP Thompson represent the values we uphold in the Nigeria Police Force. Their refusal to be compromised is commendable and should serve as an example.”
The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to maintaining discipline, transparency, and justice in all operations.
Residents have been urged to support law enforcement by reporting crimes and avoiding any action that may hinder ongoing investigations.