By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has cautioned members of the public against obstructive and provocative video-recording of police officers while carrying out lawful duties, warning that such actions could undermine security operations and compromise public safety.
The Command gave the warning in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, amid what he described as the growing trend of individuals aggressively trailing, provoking, harassing and recording officers during active law enforcement engagements in different parts of the state.
According to the statement, while the Police recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to record public officers in the course of their duties, such rights must be exercised responsibly and within the limits of the law.
The Command noted that many individuals now go beyond mere recording by deliberately provoking officers with insults, verbal attacks, intimidation, stalking with cameras, and other actions capable of creating tension and obstructing lawful operations.
It stressed that such conduct not only distracts officers from effectively discharging their responsibilities, but could also endanger lives, especially during sensitive security situations or emergency operations.
The Police spokesperson further explained that accountability and professionalism in law enforcement remain important, but cautioned that attempts to deliberately provoke officers merely to capture reactions for social media content or public sensationalism were unhealthy and counterproductive.
The statement also emphasized that in many advanced societies, citizens understand the need to strike a balance between holding security operatives accountable and respecting operational boundaries necessary for effective policing and public safety.
The Command therefore urged residents, content creators, bloggers, and social media handlers across the state to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security agencies, and avoid actions capable of obstructing officers during lawful engagements.
While reiterating its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and respect for citizens’ rights, the Police Command assured Ndi Anambra that it would continue to prioritize the protection of lives and property across the state.
