Police Commissioner Issues Stern Warning To DPOs: Avoid Prolonged Detentions Beyond 48 Hours

Police Commissioner Issues Stern Warning To DPOs: Avoid Prolonged Detentions Beyond 48 Hours

The Commissioner of Police in Kano State, Mr. Usaini Gumel, issued a stern warning to Divisional Police Officers (DPOs) on Tuesday, cautioning them against unlawfully detaining suspects for more than 48 hours without providing bail or initiating court proceedings.

During an unannounced visit to various police divisions in Kano metropolis, CP Gumel reiterated the importance of respecting the fundamental rights of suspects, emphasizing that bail is a free and unconditional right. He highlighted that holding individuals in custody beyond the specified 48-hour period without legal action was a violation of their rights, as they are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a competent court.

The Commissioner urged DPOs to consistently uphold the human rights of suspects and refrain from actions that could compromise their welfare. Accompanied by representatives from the Correctional Centre, National Human Rights Commission, judiciary, Office of the State Attorney General, and civil society organizations, CP Gumel emphasized the significance of the visit in line with the Police Duty Solicitors Scheme (PDSS) launched in December 2023.

CP Gumel stated, “All sectors of the society would want to see what the police are doing in terms of access to justice. There was a marching order by the IGP to all commissioners of police to launch the PDSS to ensure fundamental human rights, access to justice, and free legal services.”

Highlighting the commitment to the practical implementation of PDSS, CP Gumel disclosed that visits had been made to various police stations within the metropolis, including Zango, Fagge, Sharada police divisions, and the Correctional Centre at Janguza. He emphasized the unscheduled nature of the visits, aiming to assess the conditions firsthand.

The Commissioner stressed to the DPOs that bail is a cost-free provision, provided all bail conditions are met. He reiterated that detainees should not spend more than 48 hours in the cell without bail or being charged in court. The visit aims to ensure transparency, uphold justice, and promote respect for the rights of individuals within the criminal justice system.

For more information join our WhatsApp group by clicking the link here: WhatsApp Group Invite