RismadarVoice Reporters, August 27, 2026
The Nigeria Police Force has challenged social media personality Martins Vincent Otse, popularly known as VeryDarkMan (VDM), to provide evidence backing his allegation that some police officers at checkpoints collude with kidnappers and bandits.
VDM reportedly made the allegation at the recent Nigerian Bar Association Conference in Port Harcourt, claiming that police personnel at checkpoints along major highways allegedly identify wealthy travellers and pass information about their movements to criminal gangs to facilitate abductions for ransom.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, rejected the allegation as unsubstantiated and damaging to the image of the police.
The Police said officers deployed to checkpoints nationwide are mandated to prevent crime, detect criminal activities and protect motorists and other members of the public.
The Force acknowledged that individual officers found to have compromised their duties would face disciplinary action and prosecution where necessary, but rejected what it described as blanket accusations against the entire institution.
The Police also said its personnel routinely confront kidnappers, bandits and other criminal elements, with several officers having been attacked and killed in the line of duty.
The Force consequently invited VDM to submit any evidence in his possession, including information allegedly showing that police officers identify wealthy travellers and relay their identities and movements to kidnappers.
According to the Police, any credible evidence provided would be treated with urgency and thoroughly investigated.
The Force further urged members of the public to channel allegations of police misconduct through appropriate authorities to enable investigation and necessary action.
It called for responsible public commentary on national security institutions, stressing that legitimate criticism could strengthen accountability, while unsubstantiated allegations could undermine public confidence and national security.
