Rivers Police Returns $3,000 Extorted From Victims, Arrest Officers Over Misconduct

Port-Harcourt, Rivers State– The Rivers State Police Command says that a sum of $3,000, which was unlawfully extorted from two men by three police officers, has been returned to the rightful owners.

The spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, disclosed this while parading the suspects before newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday, Jan. 22.

The image maker said that the officers who kidnapped and extorted the huge sum from the men will be made to face an orderly room trial and query respectively.

According to the Statement; “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.

“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 said the behaviour of the errant officers was unacceptable and did not represent the values and principles of the police.

“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 urged the public to continue to have faith in the Nigeria Police Force as they strive to maintain the trust and confidence of the citizens they swore to serve.