Lagos State Police Reiterate “Bail is Free,” Urge Residents to Resist Extortion.

The Lagos State Police Command has once again emphasized that members of the public are not required to make any payments when filing complaints or securing bail at any police station within the state. This reminder, issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, serves as a crucial directive for residents and a strong deterrent against corrupt practices within the force.

CSP Hundeyin, in a recent interview, addressed the persistent issue of alleged extortion by some officers. He highlighted the Command’s unwavering stance on the matter, urging residents to resist any demands for payment and to promptly report such incidents to the Command’s Complaint Response Unit (CRU). This renewed emphasis comes in response to a concerning rise in complaints from Lagos residents who allege that certain officers are demanding cash before accepting reports or releasing suspects on bail, despite the well-established principle that “Bail is Free.”

Recent accounts paint a troubling picture. One resident detailed being detained after a false accusation of theft and subsequently being asked for N2,000 to simply write a statement. Even after the accusation was withdrawn, a further N10,000 was demanded for his release, ultimately negotiated down to N5,000. Another victim, a university student, recounted being threatened with fabricated armed robbery charges for failing to produce a receipt for his mobile phone, leading to an extortion of N4,000.

CSP Hundeyin has firmly condemned these actions as “corrupt practices” and urged residents to actively combat extortion by reporting such incidents to the CRU. He emphasized the importance of citizens standing their ground and utilizing the resources available to them. He cited a specific instance where the CRU intervened, leading to the release of an individual who was being wrongly asked for money.

The Lagos State Police Command’s renewed call serves as a critical reminder and a call to action. By actively reporting instances of extortion and refusing to succumb to corrupt demands, residents can play a vital role in ensuring accountability and upholding the integrity of the Lagos State Police Force. Citizens are encouraged to utilize the CRU as a crucial resource in combating these illegal practices and ensuring that justice is served without financial impediment.