The Rivers State Police Command has paraded three of its officers who arrested and extorted the sum of N4.2 million from two men.
Speaking shortly after parading the suspects before newsmen in Port Harcourt on Monday, the spokesperson for the command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the officers would face an orderly room trial and query respectively.
She noted that the action was part of internal disciplinary measures taken against operatives involved in unlawful activities.
The PPRO disclosed that the extorted money has been recovered and released to the victims.
Her words; “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.
“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.
”The command is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability. The behaviour of the errant officers is 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.
“As a result, appropriate disciplinary measures are being taken to address this grave misconduct.”
