The Edo State Police Command has reiterated the ban on officers searching citizens’ phones during routine patrols and other operations, describing the act as an “unprofessional conduct”.

The state’s Police Commissioner, CP Funsho Adegboye, a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Chidi Nwabuzor warned officers to desist from the act, as the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had directed the punishment of erring officers.

CP Adegboye noted that officers can only be allowed to search citizens’ phones when executing court order from the court of competent jurisdiction as it empowers them to carry out such duties during investigation.

The CP also urged the public to be patient with the police and report any officer who indulges in the unprofessional conduct.