Mr Edward Egbuka, the new Kogi Commissioner of Police (CP), has cautioned officers of the command against extortion and sharp practices.
Egbuka gave the warning when he addressed Area Commanders, Tactical/Operational Commanders and Divisional Police Officers at the headquarters of the command in Lokoja on Friday.
“I want to tell you that I have zero tolerance for extortion and corrupt practices among my officers and men.
“I have stepped in here in Kogi as CP and I don’t want any officer to test my resolve on these sharp practices.
“While we work towards better welfare, it will be uncalled for any officer to resort to extorting innocent people and give us bad image.
“As a responsible police officer, I rather go hungry than extorting members of the public,” he said.
The CP warned against violation of human rights, and charged the officers to be polite and firm in the discharge of their duties.
He also cautioned the state’s residents against mob action.
“Nobody on this earth can defines nor tolerate it, therefore the constituted authorities should be allowed to handle all forms of crimes in the society,” he said.
Egbuka promised to work in synergy with the military and sister security agencies, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to ensure that the state was safe and free from criminal elements.
The CP thanked the Inspector General of Police (I-G) Mr Usman Baba for appointing him as the state police chief and commended Gov. Yahaya Bello for his warm reception.