The Inspector-General of Police , Ibrahim Idris , has told operatives of the reformed Federal Special Anti-Robbery Squad to desist from checking citizens’ bank account details .
The IG also warned the F -SARS operatives not to invade people ’s phones and laptops unless there was a court order or an instruction from the Commissioner of Police in charge of a state police command.
Speaking during a workshop in Owerri , the Imo State capital , Idris warned that any F -SARS operative who violated the new rules would be dismissed from the force .
Ibrahim , who was represented by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the IGP ’ s X-Squad , Amaechi Elumelu , said any F -SARS operative who handled cases not related to armed robbery and kidnapping would equally be dismissed from the Force.
He said , “ Under the new era in F -SARS , operatives must be professional and respect the rights and privileges of all citizens. In the past , F -SARS was considered as the most elitist and professional unit of the police force .
“ In the last few years , the unit has been riddled with allegations of abuse and excesses which made the public to call for its disbandment .
“ Under the reformed F -SARS , it is illegal to search suspects ’ phones, computers , or inquire about their bank account details without proper authorisation .
“ Henceforth, F -SARS commanders must get directives from the state Commissioners of Police before invading people ’ s privacy . Any officer who disobeys will be dismissed.”
The police boss said all operatives of F -SARS would undergo medical evaluation in order to guarantee their mental , psychological and emotional condition.
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