Nigeria Police Dismiss Officers Over Alleged Robbery, Kidnapping, Extortion in Rivers State
Nigeria Police Dismiss Officers Over Alleged Robbery, Kidnapping, Extortion in Rivers State
Nigeria Police Dismiss Officers Over Alleged Robbery, Kidnapping, Extortion in Rivers State
The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed, arrested, and commenced prosecution of several officers found culpable of serious criminal offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, and abuse of office in Rivers State and its environs.
The Force said the actions of the affected personnel represent a “gross betrayal” of its ethical standards and professional code, stressing its ongoing internal reform drive aimed at cleansing the institution of criminal elements.
According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Office, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reiterated the commitment of the Force to discipline, accountability, and institutional integrity, regardless of rank or position.
Investigations uncovered a criminal syndicate involving serving officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, including Inspectors Ayanniyi Jelili, Durojaye Francis, and Olayemi Titus.
The officers were allegedly involved in unlawful patrol operations in Port Harcourt, where victims were reportedly abducted during illegal stop-and-search activities and forced to transfer funds from their bank and cryptocurrency accounts.
Authorities disclosed that three vehicles used in the operations, including Toyota Sienna buses, were recovered, alongside ₦7,338,800 traced to proceeds of the alleged crimes.
The Force also confirmed that three additional suspects — Inspectors Awele Ogbogu, Prosper Aghotor, and Corporal Favour Onwuchekwa — are currently at large and are being tracked.
In a separate case, five officers formerly attached to the Rivers State Command’s Department of Operations were found guilty of similar offences, including kidnapping, extortion, stealing, and official corruption.
The dismissed officers include Inspectors John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu, and Anele Ikechukwu, who were subjected to orderly room trial before their dismissal.
The Force stated that their case files have been forwarded for prosecution on charges including conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, and corruption-related offences.
It urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of misconduct and abuse of office through official complaint channels, assuring that all reports will be investigated.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to transparent, accountable, and service-driven policing anchored on the rule of law and protection of citizens’ rights.
Nigeria Police Dismiss Officers Over Alleged Robbery, Kidnapping, Extortion in Rivers State
