A senior police officer in Akwa Ibom State, Chief Superintendent of Police Ebong Thompson, has rejected a bribe of N800,000 offered to him to release a suspected armed robber and cover up the crime.
The incident, which unfolded at the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit, was disclosed in a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Timfon John, on Friday.
According to the statement, the suspect, 53-year-old David Samuel Isaac, was arrested after a Samsung phone snatched at gunpoint was traced to him. Investigations revealed that Isaac is a known face to the police, having been arrested and charged to court for similar offences in the past. After his release, he reportedly returned to criminal activity.
In a shocking twist, another man, identified as Emmanuel Mendie Peter, walked into the SWAT office with N800,000 in cash, allegedly intending to bribe CSP Thompson to secure Isaac’s release and suppress the case.
However, the move failed as CSP Thompson immediately rejected the money and took steps to ensure Emmanuel Peter was also taken into custody.
“The officer stood firm and refused to compromise,” the PPRO stated. “He chose professionalism and integrity over corruption, and we are proud of his conduct.”
She added that both suspects are now in custody as investigations continue.
In recognition of his uprightness, the Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom State, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, issued a commendation letter to CSP Thompson and all other officers involved in the case. While addressing personnel during the monthly briefing, the CP said, “This act of discipline and honour must be emulated by others in the Force. We must not allow the public or any suspect to derail our investigations through bribery.”
He also issued a stern warning to the public, saying, “Anyone caught attempting to influence or compromise police investigations will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the law.”
The Akwa Ibom Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to accountability and professional conduct in law enforcement.
