By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Rivers State Police Command has ordered the arrest and detention of police officers captured in a viral video allegedly extorting money from motorists in the state.
The command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, June 23, on behalf of the Commissioner for Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju.
The statement noted that it seen the video and social media reports alleging that ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffrey and other officers were extorting money from members of the public while on duty.
The police command’s response followed a public accusation by social media activist, Comrade Phils, that a team of officers from the Old GRA Police Station, near the Rivers State Government House and close to former President Goodluck Jonathan’s residence, systematically targeted motorists for extortion, particularly those with tinted windscreens.
According to the activist, the officers, allegedly led by ASP Geoffrey, disregarded valid tinted glass permits, including factory-fitted ones, and demanded cash payments starting from N100,000.
In its statement on Tuesday, the state police command condemned the allegations, saying “such conduct is inconsistent with the core values, ethics and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, has ordered their arrest, detention and immediate investigation into the allegation.”
The commissioner also added that it would conduct thorough probe into the allegations and anyone found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action.
“The Commissioner of Police reiterates that extortion, illegal collection of money and any form of unprofessional conduct by police personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He emphasised that the Command remains committed to ensuring that officers conduct themselves in a manner that promotes public trust, accountability and respect for human rights.
“CP Adepoju assures the public that the investigation will be thorough, transparent and impartial. Any officer found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the provisions of the law and the Nigeria Police Act.
“The Rivers State Police Command appreciates members of the public for bringing such incidents to its attention and encourages citizens to continue reporting cases of misconduct, corruption and abuse of office through the established complaint channels.
“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to professional policing, discipline, integrity and quality service delivery to all residents of Rivers State,” the statement added.
