The Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory, Ahmed Sanusi, has revealed that detention facilities under his command are now equipped with air conditioners to ensure humane treatment of suspects.
Sanusi made the disclosure on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja, emphasizing that those in police custody deserve to be treated with dignity.
“To the extent that I uphold human rights, even my cells have air conditioners. I make sure suspects also benefit from this. When they leave, they are happier, and many even talk positively about it,” he said. “I believe they are human beings and should be treated as such.”
He added that being arrested does not imply condemnation.
“The court will determine your fate, but while you are with us, we aim to give you the best possible treatment. When released, many leave with respect for the police because of the way they were treated,” Sanusi said.
The FCT police chief also issued a stern warning against manhole vandalism, describing such acts as economic sabotage. “Anyone arrested for manhole vandalization will not be treated like an ordinary thief,” he said.
He noted that law enforcement would also pursue buyers of stolen materials and increase night patrols to combat crime in the territory.
Sanusi assumed duty as the 35th FCT Commissioner of Police on Tuesday.