Four police officers have been detained in Bayelsa State over allegations of extorting N10 million from a group of young people, according to a statement from the Nigeria Police Force on Friday. The officers, identified as ASP Emmanuel Ubong and Inspectors Nse Okon, Adiewere Collins, and Kuromare Marine, are reportedly under investigation.
Muyiwa Adejobi, the force’s spokesperson, confirmed the detention and said the extorted funds were recovered through efforts led by Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Adebola Hamzat, head of Zone 16, which covers Bayelsa State.
The officers will face an orderly room trial, a disciplinary procedure for members of the police force, to determine their culpability.
In response to the incident, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a comprehensive investigation into the allegations of corruption and misconduct against the officers. “The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has condemned alleged extortions by some officers, particularly the recent case involving officers of Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters, Yenagoa,” the statement read.
Egbetokun reassured the public that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to accountability and will thoroughly investigate any allegations of misconduct. “In pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector-General has mandated severe consequences for any officer, no matter how highly ranked, found culpable, serving as a deterrent to those who may seek to compromise the integrity of the Force,” Adejobi stated.
This incident highlights the Nigeria Police Force’s ongoing efforts to address cases of misconduct and enforce disciplinary measures to maintain public trust.
