The Imo State Police Commissioner, Aboki Danjuma has banned all tactical teams from using unmarked vehicles, including mini-buses and tricycles (popularly known as Keke), for patrols across the state ¹.
This decision follows numerous complaints of harassment, intimidation, and extortion by some tactical officers operating in unapproved vehicles while on routine patrols.
The police commissioner has condemned these acts as wholly unprofessional and has vowed to take disciplinary action against commanders overseeing offending teams and their subordinates.
“Unmarked vehicles, mini-buses, and tricycles (Keke) are strictly prohibited for use by police tactical teams during patrols.
“All units are directed to comply strictly with the directive, and members of the public are encouraged to report any violations.
“Violators risk immediate sanctions to uphold accountability”, CP said.
By ensuring that police operatives conduct themselves in a professional manner, the command seeks to restore public confidence in the police.
The directive is designed to prevent misconduct and ensure that police officers adhere to ethical standards.
By regulating the use of vehicles, the police command can better monitor and control the activities of its officers.
This move is expected to reshape roadside patrol dynamics in Imo State, which has previously been impacted by armed conflicts and security operations.
The effectiveness of the ban in curbing abuses and its potential impact on security operations will be closely watched
In March 2025, the Imo State Police Command reinforced a ban on tinted vehicles, covered number plates, and unauthorized sirens due to security concerns.
Similarly, in May 2025, the Imo State Government began clamping down on commercial vehicles with tinted glasses and covered plate numbers operating in the state.
In a press statement issued by the Command’s spokesman, DSP Henry Okoye, the CP described the act as grossly unprofessional, and warned that any team found violating this directive would face immediate sanctions and commanders of such teams would be vicariously held liable.
He further said that “the Command reiterates its commitment to upholding professionalism, accountability, and ethical policing standards in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police..
The statement read in full: “The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP ABOKI DANJUMA, has issued a firm directive banning all tactical teams from using unmarked vehicles, including mini-buses and tricycles (Keke), for patrols across the state.
“This action follows numerous complaints of harassment, intimidation, and extortion by some tactical officers operating in unapproved vehicles while on routine patrols.
“The CP described the act as grossly unprofessional, and warned that any team found violating this directive will face immediate sanctions. Commanders of such teams will be vicariously held liable.
“The Command reiterates its commitment to upholding professionalism, accountability, and ethical policing standards in line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police.
“All units are directed to comply strictly, and members of the public are encouraged to report any violations.”
