In an unexpected turn of events, a retired Nigerian police inspector, Linus Monday, has found himself on the wrong side of the law. The news broke on the official X (formerly Twitter) handle of Nigerian Stories, revealing that the ex-inspector was arrested for conducting unauthorized “stop and search” operations long after his retirement from the force.
According to preliminary reports, Linus Monday, whose retirement was finalized over a year ago, was caught impersonating an active-duty officer in an apparent attempt to extort unsuspecting motorists. Sources claim that the retired officer, dressed in full police regalia, flagged down vehicles along a busy route, engaging in what witnesses described as a brazen abuse of power.
Local law enforcement officials confirmed his arrest, stating that such acts tarnish the reputation of the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) and undermine the trust of the public. A spokesperson for the force remarked, “It is disheartening to see a former officer, someone who was once entrusted with upholding the law, turn around and flout it so blatantly. This sends the wrong message to the citizens we are sworn to protect.”
The arrest has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many Nigerians criticizing the prevalence of impunity among retired officers who exploit their former positions for personal gain. Others commended the swift action taken by the police to address the matter, urging further investigation to determine if Linus Monday was part of a larger network involved in such illegal activities.
While the motivation behind his actions remains unclear, analysts suggest it could stem from financial difficulties often faced by retired law enforcement personnel, who struggle with meager pensions and limited support systems.
The Nigerian Police Force has reiterated its commitment to rooting out misconduct within its ranks, past or present. “We want to assure the public that no one is above the law, whether retired or serving. This incident underscores our resolve to ensure justice prevails,” the spokesperson added.
As investigations continue, Nigerians are left to ponder the deeper issues surrounding police welfare, accountability, and the measures needed to prevent such acts from reoccurring. For now, the arrest of Linus Monday serves as a stark reminder that law enforcement, even in retirement, must remain a symbol of integrity.
PIONEER NEWS 