The Rivers State Police Command has ordered the arrest and detention of police officers captured in a viral video allegedly extorting motorists in the state.
According to The Punch, the command disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday by its spokesperson, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju.
The command said it had taken note of the viral video and social media reports alleging that ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffrey and other officers were involved in extorting members of the public while on duty.
The controversy followed allegations by social media activist, Comrade Phils, who accused officers attached to the Old GRA Police Station of targeting motorists, particularly those driving vehicles with tinted windows.
According to the complaints, the officers allegedly ignored valid tinted glass permits, including factory-fitted approvals, and demanded payments from motorists, with some requests reportedly starting from ₦100,000.
Reacting to the allegations, the police command stated that the conduct was inconsistent with the values and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Command views the allegations with utmost seriousness, as such conduct is inconsistent with the core values, ethics and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement said.
It added that the Commissioner of Police had ordered the immediate arrest, detention and investigation of the officers involved.
“Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, has ordered their arrest, detention and immediate investigation into the allegation,” the statement read.
Adepoju reiterated that extortion, illegal collection of money and other forms of misconduct would not be tolerated within the command.
“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,” the statement added.
He assured residents that the investigation would be transparent and impartial, stressing that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with the law and the Nigeria Police Act.
The command also commended members of the public for reporting incidents of misconduct and encouraged residents to continue using established complaint channels to report corruption, abuse of office and other unethical behaviour by police personnel.
It reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, discipline, integrity and quality service delivery across Rivers State.
