Detained filmmaker accuses Imo police of high-handedness, corruption


A Nigerian filmmaker has taken to social media to expose alleged corruption and high-handedness by police operatives in Imo State.

In an emotional video, the content creator recounted his experience of being detained by officers from the Anti-Narcotics and Drugs Section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Owerri, the Imo State capital.

In the viral video, he claimed the police wrongfully arrested him and his crew while they were on a movie shoot.

The filmmaker, who wishes to remain anonymous for security reasons, described how he and his team were stopped by officers while on their way to recover a lost SIM card.

The police allegedly searched their vehicle and found prop money meant for use in a film production, which clearly indicated it was not real currency. Despite explaining the nature of the money, the officers reportedly accused them of illegal activity and demanded a bribe of ₦1.5 million for their release.

“They detained us without allowing me to call my lawyer or family. They kept us with criminals and locked us in a cell without food or water,” he said in the video.

The filmmaker noted the dire conditions of the cell, stating that one of his crew members, who has health issues, nearly died during the ordeal due to a lack of medical care.

He expressed deep concern for the many innocent people he saw languishing in the cell, who he claims were denied basic rights like contacting their families or lawyers.

He added, “This is not just about me; there are so many people in there who are suffering for no reason. If this can happen to me, it can happen to anyone.”

He has called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the officers involved, mentioning specific names such as one IPO Mary and Officer Jude, who were responsible for their detention.

He vowed to embark on legal action to hold those responsible accountable for the mistreatment he and his team faced.

The incident has sparked outrage online, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over what they see as rampant corruption and abuse of power within the police force.

The video has since gone viral, with calls for a thorough investigation into the nefarious activities at the State CID in Owerri, particularly within the Anti-Narcotics and Drugs Section.

As investigations unfold, this case has reignited the debate over police reform in Nigeria, highlighting the need for stronger accountability measures to curb police misconduct.

The filmmaker’s ordeal has drawn widespread support, with many urging the government to act swiftly in addressing the allegations.

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