FCID Annex Trains Detectives in Criminal Profiling, Fingerprint Identification
The Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos, AIG Simeon Akpanudom, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to professional, accountable and intelligence-led policing, while strengthening detectives’ capacity in criminal profiling and fingerprint identification.
Akpanudom gave the assurance during a general lecture on Monday, where he addressed professional conduct, investigative standards, public complaints and the welfare of persons in police custody.
This was made known in a statement issued and signed by the FCID Annex Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Aminat Mayegun.
The AIG expressed concern over complaints of unprofessional conduct by police officers, warning that misconduct could undermine public confidence and damage the reputation of the Force.
He stressed the need for integrity, discipline and accountability, including proper documentation of police firearms and other official responsibilities. He also directed personnel to comply with established procedures for the re-issuance of valid police identification cards.
On officers’ conduct, he urged personnel to behave responsibly both on and off duty, comply strictly with the Police Social Media Policy and avoid online activities capable of undermining the image of the Force. He also cautioned officers against inappropriate public statements during the election period, stressing the need for professionalism and impartiality.
Akpanudom reiterated the prohibition of extortion, harassment, torture and other unlawful practices, directing officers to treat detainees with dignity and ensure that complaints of illness receive prompt medical attention.
He also charged investigating police officers to conduct thorough, impartial and evidence-based investigations, carefully examine petitions and relevant documents, and establish the facts of each case before taking action.
The AIG said invitation letters must clearly state their purpose and identify the offence under investigation where applicable. He emphasised that arrests must be based on lawful grounds and supporting facts, warning that arresting individuals solely because of their relationship with a suspect, known as arrest by proxy, is prohibited.
On the handling of personal belongings, he directed officers to return items not required for investigations or as exhibits to their rightful owners, while ensuring that retained exhibits are properly documented and handled.
As part of efforts to improve investigative competence, Akpanudom highlighted ongoing training for detectives in criminal profiling and fingerprint identification, organised in batches by the Central Criminal Registry and the Forensic Unit.
The programme is designed to improve officers’ skills in suspect identification, criminal record management, fingerprint analysis and evidence-based investigations, particularly in complex criminal cases.
He also warned against unauthorised roadblocks and activities inconsistent with established procedures, urging team leaders and sectional heads to strengthen supervision and enforce discipline among their personnel.
The AIG called on officers at the FCID Annex to uphold citizens’ rights, obey the law and maintain high professional standards, while encouraging members of the public to provide credible information and report suspected criminal activities through appropriate channels.
He said the Annex remained committed to strengthening investigative capacity, promoting accountability and ensuring that justice is pursued fairly and in accordance with the rule of law.

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