The Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, Adebowale Lawal, has ordered the immediate redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Enu-Owa Division at Ondo town, in Ondo West Local Government Area, following what the Command described as “unprofessional handling” of a case involving a social media influencer, Adefolarin Ayomiposi, popularly known as Mandykiss.
The decision, according to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, was taken after a video surfaced online showing the influencer filming and taking photographs of two female suspects in police custody — an act that has sparked outrage among the public and raised questions about due process in law enforcement.
The force said preliminary investigations by the Command revealed that no police officer was present during the purported arrest led by Mandykiss. Instead, the influencer was allegedly assisted by her social media followers, who provided information that led to the arrest of the suspects, identified as Mrs. Akinwole Sabitu and her daughter, Miss Akinwole Oyindamola.
The duo were accused of cyberbullying Mandykiss, but the influencer was seen in a viral video recording herself with the suspects inside her vehicle while conveying them to the police station. On arrival, she reportedly handed them over to officers at Enu-Owa Division but went further to take photographs of the suspects within the station premises before posting them online.
CP Lawal, who described the development as a “serious breach of procedure and professionalism,” said the DPO’s failure to maintain decorum and enforce standard police practices necessitated his immediate redeployment.
“The Command will not condone any act capable of eroding public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force,” the Commissioner declared, emphasizing that recording or photographing suspects in custody violates established ethical standards and undermines the presumption of innocence guaranteed under the law.
He reiterated that every police officer has a duty to safeguard the rights of suspects and complainants alike, stressing that the conduct of the Enu-Owa DPO fell short of the discipline, integrity, and professionalism expected within the Force.
While reaffirming his commitment to discipline and accountability across the Command, CP Lawal expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for his exemplary leadership and guidance in promoting professionalism and operational excellence within the Nigeria Police.
The Commissioner urged officers under his command to remain impartial and vigilant in the discharge of their duties, assuring the public that the Force remains committed to transparency, justice, and respect for human rights.
Fidelis David
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