Nigeria Police warn suspects: resisting arrest may lead to doors being broken, citing powers under criminal procedure laws.
The Nigeria Police Force has issued a strong warning to the public, stressing that its officers are legally empowered to break doors or barriers when arresting suspects who refuse to cooperate.
This revelation came from the Deputy Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Force, who explained that such actions are backed by Nigeria’s criminal procedure laws and do not amount to rights violations when executed lawfully.
According to him, suspects who deliberately resist arrest by locking themselves inside or refusing entry create sufficient grounds for officers to forcefully enter.
He emphasized that while the police are expected to use minimal force, they cannot allow suspects to obstruct justice by hiding behind locked doors.
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The clarification has triggered mixed reactions among Nigerians, with some viewing it as a necessary legal tool to uphold law and order, while others worry it could open the door to abuse by security operatives.
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The Police assured that the power to break doors during arrests will only be applied responsibly and strictly within the boundaries of the law.