Police Return $3000 Extorted From Civilians By Corrupt Officers

The Rivers State Police Command has announced that the $3,000 extorted from two persons by three police officers has been returned to the rightful owners.

The officers who kidnapped and extorted the large cash from the guys will face an orderly room trial and questioning, respectively.

Grace Iringe-Koko, the command’s spokesperson, revealed this when presenting the suspects to reporters in Port Harcourt on Monday, Jan. 22.

Iringe Koko said: “The Rivers State Police Command wishes to inform the public that it has taken decisive action in response to a distressing incident involving the unlawful abduction and extortion of two young men by three of our officers, ASP Doubara Edonyabo, ASP Talent Mungo, and Inspector Odey Michael.

“The victims were arrested in Abia State, taken to Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers states, respectively for alleged fraud by yet-to-be-seen complainants.

“They were extorted of the sum of $3,000, equivalent to N4.2 million. Immediate steps were taken to apprehend the officers involved, and a thorough investigation was conducted to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.

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“The extorted money was recovered and released to the victims on 18th January 2024.

“Following a comprehensive inquiry, it has been established that the actions of the officers in question were in clear violation of the law and the ethical standards expected of members of the Nigeria Police Force.

“As a result, appropriate disciplinary measures are being taken to address this grave misconduct.”

She added that “in response to these regrettable events, the two officers have been issued with official queries, and the inspector has been slated for an orderly room trial.

“Additionally, to demonstrate our commitment to transparency and accountability, the Rivers State Police Command has decided to publicly parade the officers before the press to underscore the seriousness with which we view this matter.”

Iringe-Koko stated that the errant officers’ actions was unacceptable and did not reflect the ideals and principles of the police.

She added, “We deeply regret the negative impact that such misconduct may have on the reputation of the Rivers State Command and the Nigeria Police Force in general.

“It is important to emphasise that the actions of a few individuals should not overshadow the dedication and sacrifice of the vast majority of our officers who serve with honour and distinction.

“The Inspector General of Police has consistently articulated a zero-tolerance stance against corruption and misconduct within the force, and this incident does not reflect the aspirations of the Nigeria Police Force as a whole.

“The Rivers State Police Command reassures the public that we remain resolute in our commitment to serving and protecting the community with the utmost professionalism and integrity.”

She asked the public to continue to believe in the Nigeria Police Force as they work to maintain the trust and confidence of the people they swore to protect.

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli