The Delta State Police Command has justified the thorough search conducted by officers at a checkpoint during a road trip from Benin to Owerri, insisting that it was within their rights.

A viral video shared on Wednesday showed officers inspecting passengers’ luggage, boxes, and sealed waybill packages, causing an hour-long delay. Among the affected travellers were mothers and children.

Reacting to concerns on Thursday via X, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, defended the search, stressing its necessity for security purposes.

“What if they had recovered Beretta pistols and ammunition while carrying out this thorough search? Would you be asking this question?” he asked.

He further clarified that while male officers are not allowed to conduct physical searches on women, they have the authority to inspect their belongings.

“The police were right and can search all items, including waybills, during the course of stop-and-search duty. And yes, they can search the belongings of a woman. They are only not allowed to search a woman physically if they are male officers, but not their properties. Are we clear?” he added.