Crime Witnesses' Non-Cooperation in Police Investigations

Abstract

The importance of crime witnesses in policing and crime control cannot be overemphasized. In Nigeria, a constant impediment in the effective operation of the criminal justice system machineries is the non-cooperation of crime witnesses with personnel of the Nigeria Police Force. Against this background, this paper examines the causes and consequences of crime witnesses' non-cooperation in police investigations in Nigeria. Rational choice theory was employed for its theoretical anchorage. A wide range of socio-cultural factors were identified as sustaining the traditional communication gap between the Police and crime witnesses that possess vital information which can aid their crime investigation. The Nigeria Police Force is urged to develop a holistic road-map through which the level of public confidence in its operation can be boosted.