The Imo State Police Command has officially and vehemently refuted persistent claims alleging that its Anti-Kidnapping Unit, known as “Tiger Base,” is involved in systematic torture, organ trafficking, and extrajudicial killings.
The denial, issued via a press release by Command spokesperson DSP Okoye Henry, dismissed the viral claims as “false, unfounded, and intended to mislead the public.” This strong defense comes months after the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) publicly called for the unit’s disbandment amid continuous reports of widespread human rights abuses, including unlawful detention and extortion.
The Command provided a robust defense of the unit’s operations, stating that the Anti-Kidnapping Unit is a legitimate tactical formation of the Nigeria Police Force, mandated to combat violent crimes such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and cultism. They highlighted the unit’s operational success, claiming it has successfully dismantled several notorious criminal syndicates, contributing to the improved peace and security in Imo State.
The police asserted that there is no credible evidence supporting the allegations, arguing instead that the negative narratives are part of a “smear campaign by criminal elements” seeking to undermine ongoing security operations.
To strengthen oversight and ensure accountability, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, directed the immediate establishment of a Human Rights Desk within the Anti-Kidnapping Unit itself. The Commissioner urged the public to disregard the false claims and directed Imo residents with genuine complaints to utilize the established channels: the Complaints Response Unit (CRU), the XSquad, or the newly established Human Rights Desk.
The command further warned that circulating false information to incite fear is a violation of the Cybercrime Act 2015 and will be treated accordingly.
