You have a right to search a policeman, Police tells Nigerians

The Police has said that Nigerians have the right to search police officers before being searched.

The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Frank Mba who made this known over the weekend said Nigerians had the right to demand for warrant concerning their arrest but added that the Police have powers to arrest without warrant in many circumstances.

The statement titled (Part 2) Tips for Safe and Cordial Conducts During an Arrest, reads in part:

‘’Politely demand to know the reason for your arrest. It is your right to know. Also, where the officers have not disclosed their identity, courteously request their identity and where they came from, or the office where they work.

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‘’If the arrest requires the officer to conduct a search on you, demand to see the Search Warrant and comply with all legitimate instruction during the search (Note that there are a lot of instances where a policeman can search you with or without warrant)

‘’You may politely request that the officer be searched before searching you. Often times, this helps to allay fears that someone may be trying to “plant” incriminating items on you or implicate you in any other way.’’

Mba added that police may ask one to perform some tests such as walking in a straight line if a person is pulled over on suspicion of being drunk or high on drugs.

The PPRO also noted that Nigerians had the right to decline a written statement if they felt it would implicate them.

A suspect can request that the officers allow him or her inform a trusted friend, family member or a lawyer after an arrest to avoid unnecessary apprehension as to whereabouts or safety.

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