The Nigeria Police Force has announced intensified efforts to sanitize ranks, dismiss and prosecute officers allegedly involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, extortion, stealing, and abuse of office in Rivers State and environs.
According to the Nigeria Police Force press release, a just concluded investigation uncovered a criminal syndicate. An allegation involving serving officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, identified as Inspector Ayanniyi Jelili, Inspector Durojaye Francis, and Inspector Olayemi Titus. The officers who are accused of engaging in armed robbery, kidnapping, and extortion. While also allegedly conducting illegal patrol operations in Port Harcourt.
The suspects reportedly abducted victims during unlawful stop-and-search operations, forced them to disclose access to their bank and cryptocurrency accounts, and extorted millions of naira. Explaining that the investigation led to the arrest of the three officers. While the three other alleged accomplices Inspector Awele Ogbogu, Inspector Prosper Aghotor, and Corporal Favour Onwuchekwa are currently on the run.
Amid that, the Nigeria Police Force further uncovered another criminal syndicate. Involving officers formerly attached to the Department of Operations, Rivers State Command. Stating their names; Inspector John Okoi, Inspector Eyibo Asuquo, Inspector Udo Ndipmong, Inspector Bright Nwachukwu, and Inspector Anele Ikechukwu. The suspects who engaged in organised acts of kidnapping, extortion, stealing, and official corruption.
The authorities further stressed that the dismissed officers were found to have routinely abducted citizens. And extort money through unlawful transfers from victims’ banks. Including cryptocurrency accounts, and dispossessed them of valuables while operating under the guise of official patrol duties.
While stating the exhibits recovered which include three Toyota Sienna vehicles allegedly used in the operations, and a sum of ₦7,338,800 believed to be proceeds from the criminal activities.
The Force ordered the suspects dismissed from the police force. Noting that their case file has been forwarded for prosecution. Based on charges including conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, and related offences.
The Nigeria Police Force urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of police misconduct. Including any form of abuse of office, extortion, and human rights violations through official complaint channels. The Agency also reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, accountability, and institutional reform.
Stressing that officers found guilty of misconduct or criminal acts would face strict sanctions regardless of rank.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
