In a significant move to enhance accountability and combat police extortion, the Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has introduced a new monitoring initiative. This strategy, announced in a press statement on Sunday, aims to oversee police checkpoints and patrol teams more effectively across the state.

The initiative follows insights gathered from recent Anambra Security Stakeholders’ Interactive Sessions held by CP Ama in all three senatorial districts. According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the command, the monitoring mechanism will utilize the command’s Operational Control Rooms to maintain closer supervision of police activities. This step is designed to strengthen effective policing and ensure that officers adhere to professional standards.

Ikenga emphasized that the new strategy is focused on eliminating extortion, harassment, and other forms of misconduct that have plagued interactions between police personnel and the public. He stated, “Under the new strategy, the Command’s Operational Control Rooms will maintain closer oversight of patrol formations and checkpoints, with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders expected to account for the activities of personnel deployed to strategic locations.”

The initiative also includes a system for receiving and monitoring reports of police misconduct. Complaints regarding extortion or unprofessional conduct will be escalated for necessary action, ensuring that officers are held accountable for their actions.

CP Nnanna Ama reiterated the commitment of the police command to provide effective security and protect the lives and properties of residents in Anambra. He made it clear that any officer found engaging in misconduct would face disciplinary measures in accordance with established regulations.

To foster community involvement, the police command has urged the public to report any incidents of extortion or harassment. They have provided several communication channels for this purpose, including the Operational Control Room at 07039194332, the Police Public Relations Officer at 08039334002, and a dedicated WhatsApp number for the Commissioner of Police at 09169531886.

This initiative marks a proactive step by the Anambra State Police to improve their relationship with the community and restore public trust in law enforcement. The command has assured citizens that credible complaints will be addressed promptly, reinforcing their commitment to professional and accountable policing.