Rivers State Police Command has assured International Federation of Women Lawyers FIDA, that any of its Officers caught negotiating with parties involved in rape cases will severely punished.
Commissioner of Police, CP Joseph Mukan, who stated this when FIDA took an advocacy on Gender-Based violence to the Police Headquarters, said no Police Officer has the right to settle sexual molestation cases, as it is a serious crime.
CP Mukan however reiterated the Command’s continuous partnership with FIDA in ensuring justice for raped victims, adding that the Inspector General of Police is working hard to strengthen Gender-Based Violence prevention.
“Anytime we receive report of any our Officer settling rape matters instead of Prosecuting the case, that Officer must be dealt with in accordance with the Command’s laid down disciplinary actions on such offences.
“It is our core duty to justify tax-payers money being invested in the Police, be rest assured on this issue of rape, we already put plans in motion to address the issue properly.
“I urge you FIDA to avail us the information of any Officer who commits this offence, we know there are bad elements in the police force, every Officer ought to know the seriousness involved in rape matter” .
On her part, Chairperson FIDA, Ngozi Ighosevbe, urged the Command not to relent in its duties, as sexual molestation of children and women are being perpetrated on a daily basis.
“We want to note that after FIDA receives these rape complaints and we send the victims to police station, it is so disappointing that Officers of the Police often times constitute themselves to intermediary, asking for settlement amongst parties.
“Why would an officer who is supposed to protect the interest of the general public become an instrument to ensure that it is averted. It is the responsibility of police officer to arrest, prosecute and not the contrary.
“In a society where there is order, things should be done appropriately without anyone telling the other his or her rightful duties”
