F-SARS warned to stop searching suspects bank account balance

www.odogwublog.com reports that operatives of the Federal Special Anti Robbery Squad (F-SARS) of the Imo State Police command have been charged to henceforth stop searching suspects phones, laptops, and checking bank account balance except granted by a law court or a Police Commissioner.

Deputy Commissioner of Police, Amaechi Elumelu in charge of the Inspector General of Police Xsquad gave the charge during a workshop for operatives attached to the Reformed Special Anti Robbery Squad (SARS) of the police command.

Elumelu lamented that in times past, SARS was considered the elitist unit of the Police because of its professionalism but regretted that in the last two years, the division has been riddled with allegations of abuse and excesses.

According to him, under the reformed SARS, it is illegal to search suspects phones, computers, or inquire about bank account details without proper authorization.

Elumelu warned that henceforth, the SARS Commander must get directives from the State Commissioner of Police saying failure attracts dismissal from the force.

The head of the Xsquad disclosed that all operatives will undergo medical evaluation, to check officers mental, psychological, emotional balance, amongst others, to ensure they are fit and not a danger to themselves and the society.

He disclosed that all operatives must be computer literate to be able to adapt to the innovations in the Force.

According to him, SARS is supposed to be an integral part of the PCRC but regretted that it does not have a representative at the meetings, saying "can you protect persons you are unfriendly to, how do you expect the person to come and complain the next time, I encourage you to be endearing even as you discharge your duties".

Further, Elumelu charged the operatives not to detain any suspect for more than 48 hours without a remand court order, adding that only female operatives should search female suspects.

On allegations of detaining children, the Police boss said no child should be detained by SARS, saying such suspects that are underage should be handed over to the juvenile section.

Elumelu called for the establishment of medical units within the unit, to help provide first aid treatment for suspects arrested with health issues or wounds.

He commended the operatives for their commitment to rid the society of crime at the expense of their personal comfort even as he said more is expected of them.

The IGPs representative reiterated that bail is free and warned that any officer caught receiving money risks dismissal from the force.

Commander of the Imo SARS, Victor assured that all the reforms will be adopted adding that his men will live above board.