In a bold display of integrity, Ebong Thompson, the officer in charge of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Unit, has rejected a bribe of ₦800,000 allegedly offered to him in exchange for the release of a suspected armed robber and the concealment of the suspect’s crime.
The incident, which took place during an ongoing investigation, involved a notorious armed robbery suspect who was apprehended by the SWAT team following credible intelligence. During the suspect’s detention, individuals claiming to be his associates allegedly approached Officer Thompson with a cash offer of ₦800,000, pleading for the suspect’s release and for the case to be dropped.
According to police sources, Officer Thompson flatly rejected the offer and immediately reported the bribery attempt to higher authorities. The bribe money was seized as evidence, and the individuals who attempted the bribery are now under investigation for obstruction of justice and aiding a criminal.
In a statement released by the police command, the Commissioner of Police praised Officer Thompson for his professionalism and unwavering dedication to justice, describing his actions as “a model of integrity that must be emulated by all personnel.”
“This is the kind of discipline and moral courage we expect from our officers. The public must see that the Nigeria Police Force is undergoing transformation, and this is a clear indication that we are committed to fighting both crime and corruption,” the Commissioner stated.
Officer Thompson’s actions have since drawn public commendation on social media, with many Nigerians hailing him as a symbol of hope for ethical policing in the country.