Police detain 3 officers over alleged extortion in Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has taken swift action against three police inspectors accused of extorting money from a civilian during a routine patrol in Awka.

According to a statement released on Thursday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the officers were detained after a complaint surfaced alleging misconduct. The incident reportedly occurred when the officers stopped a member of the public, conducted an unauthorized phone search, and allegedly extorted money from him.

Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the actions of the officers and ordered immediate disciplinary proceedings. He emphasized the Command’s commitment to upholding professionalism and protecting the rights of citizens.

“The CP further directed the immediate commencement of internal disciplinary proceedings of the force against the officers.The CP during interrogation of the officers frowned at the poor character exhibited when they accosted an unsuspecting member of the public during a security patrol, forcibly searched his phone and extorted money from the victim,” the statement said.

Ikenga noted that the Commissioner reiterated the police force’s stance on accountability and professionalism.

“The CP noted that such anomalies, aside from negating the professional calling of the police, are unacceptable as they affect the entire execution of policies and directives.Your character will widen the trust gap between the citizens and the force,” the CP said.

He added that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to upholding discipline, transparency, and public trust, and will not tolerate misconduct among its personnel.