The Nigeria Police Force has arrested an officer captured in a viral social media video threatening to kill anyone who recorded him while on duty, as public outrage continues over the disturbing remarks.

The officer, identified as Newton Isokpehi, was arrested by the Anambra State Police Command after the controversial video circulated widely across social media platforms including X, Instagram, and TikTok.

In an official statement released on Thursday, the police command confirmed that internal disciplinary procedures had already commenced against the officer. The statement was signed by Ngozi Ezeabata on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu.

Viral Video Sparks Public Backlash

The controversy began after a video surfaced online showing Isokpehi issuing violent threats against members of the public who attempted to film him while carrying out official duties.

Speaking in Pidgin English and directly addressing the camera, the officer warned that he would “clear everybody down” if anyone recorded him. He further claimed that even bystanders could become victims if he decided to open fire.

The officer also made alarming comments suggesting that any superior officer who approved the filming of police officers would be responsible for burying the citizens he threatened to kill.

The video quickly gained traction online, triggering widespread condemnation from Nigerians, civil society organisations, and human rights advocates who questioned the professionalism and conduct displayed by the officer.

Although the original clip was later deleted from his TikTok account, copies had already spread extensively across multiple platforms.

Police Move Swiftly After Video Emerges

According to the police statement, authorities acted immediately after reviewing the viral footage.

The command stated that the officer was promptly identified and taken into custody following the circulation of the video.

The statement read in part:

“Following a prompt review of the video, the Command immediately identified and arrested the officer involved. The officer is an Assistant Superintendent of Police, ASP Newton Isokpehi, serving in the Command.”

Police authorities also confirmed that disciplinary proceedings were activated in line with the ethical standards and regulations guiding the Nigeria Police Force.

Officer Under Investigation and Drug Test Conducted

As part of the ongoing investigation, the police command disclosed that Isokpehi had undergone a drug test to help investigators determine whether any external factors contributed to his conduct.

Authorities explained that the test formed part of efforts to ensure a transparent and comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The command stressed that all aspects of the matter would be thoroughly examined before final disciplinary decisions are reached.

Police Condemn Officer’s Conduct

Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu strongly condemned the officer’s behaviour, describing the comments captured in the video as unacceptable and inconsistent with the values of the Nigeria Police Force.

The command reiterated that the force remains a disciplined institution that does not tolerate misconduct, abuse of authority, incitement, or unprofessional conduct capable of damaging public confidence.

The statement further assured residents of Anambra State and the general public that the outcome of the disciplinary process would be made public.

Police authorities also promised that any officer found guilty of misconduct would face appropriate sanctions in accordance with existing laws and police regulations.

Reminder to Officers on Professional Conduct

Beyond the ongoing investigation, the Anambra State Police Command used the incident as an opportunity to remind officers of the standards expected of them while interacting with the public.

The command urged officers and personnel to remain professional, emotionally balanced, and respectful while carrying out their lawful responsibilities, especially in an era where public scrutiny of security agencies continues to intensify through social media and citizen journalism.

The statement highlighted the increasing role of digital platforms in holding public officials accountable for their actions and conduct.

Public Praised for Supporting Accountability

The police command also acknowledged the role played by members of the public, civil society organisations, and social media users in drawing attention to the incident.

Authorities described public participation and credible reporting as important tools for improving accountability and service delivery within the police force.

Residents were encouraged to continue reporting incidents and behaviours capable of undermining public safety, peace, and confidence in security agencies.

The incident has once again reignited national conversations about police accountability, professionalism, and the relationship between security operatives and civilians in Nigeria’s digital age, where encounters with law enforcement are increasingly documented and shared online in real time.