The police in Ebonyi State have started disciplinary actions against officers who were caught on video extorting money from motorists at a checkpoint.
The video, which circulated online, showed two armed officers collecting money from commercial motorcyclists at Ishieke Junction in Ivo Local Government Area.
In a statement on Wednesday, the police spokesperson, Joshua Ukandu, confirmed that the authorities are aware of the incident and condemned the unprofessional behavior of the officers.
“The command unequivocally condemns their actions and has identified the officers involved, while disciplinary actions have already been initiated against them,” Ukandu said.
He also mentioned that the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi, Anthonia Uche-Anya, has emphasized the police force’s “zero tolerance” for extortion and misconduct, warning that any officer found guilty will face disciplinary measures.
This is not the first time such cases have occurred. Despite previous punishments, including dismissals, police extortion continues to be a problem in Nigeria.
Just last week, four officers in Imo State faced disciplinary action for similar accusations. Other recent cases include incidents in Bayelsa, Anambra, and Abia, where officers were either fined, dismissed, or returned the money they extorted from victims.
The police in Ebonyi have vowed to continue cracking down on misconduct and urged the public to report any illegal activities involving officers.
