The Inspector-General of Police, , has cautioned 1,068 retrained constables against professional misconduct, stressing that wearing the police uniform does not place them above the law.
Speaking at the passing-out parade of the officers at the Police Mobile Force Base in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Thursday, Disu declared that the era of impunity within the Force had come to an end.
He warned that any officer who misuses firearms or unlawfully takes a life would face immediate dismissal and prosecution, rather than redeployment or internal disciplinary measures.
According to him, “No badge is a licence to kill, and no uniform shields anyone from justice.”
The police chief emphasised that poorly trained officers pose a threat to public safety, while disciplined and well-trained personnel remain true protectors of citizens.
He also commended the Akwa Ibom State Command for its initiative in retraining female officers in weapons handling, noting that competence in policing is not limited by gender.
Reiterating the provisions of Force Order 237, Disu reminded officers that firearms must only be used as a last resort and strictly within legal boundaries.
He further warned against misconduct such as extortion, reporting for duty under the influence of alcohol, and reckless handling of weapons, adding that violators would face summary dismissal and possible criminal charges.
The IGP urged the officers to carry out their duties with professionalism, respect for human rights, and a strong sense of responsibility to the public.
Earlier, the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner of Police, , said some of the retrained officers had been selected for the newly created Violent Crime Response Unit aimed at tackling violent crimes across the state.
He also highlighted recent achievements of the command, including the safe disposal of explosive devices at the Ikot Ekpene custodial centre and the rescue of kidnapped victims along the Calabar–Oron waterways through joint operations with other security agencies.
Azare reaffirmed the command’s commitment to community policing and called on residents to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information.
