The Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun, has denounced the alleged extortion practices by certain officers within the force in various regions of the country.
He has mandated “severe” penalties for any officers found to be corrupt.
The IGP specifically referenced an incident involving officers from the Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters in Yenegoa, namely ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine.
These officers are accused of extorting ₦10 million from a group of young Nigerians.
In a statement issued on Friday by the Force’s Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, it was reported that the funds have been recovered thanks to the efforts of the newly appointed Assistant Inspector-General of Police overseeing Zone 16.
Adejobi further noted that the officers involved have been detained and are currently undergoing an orderly room trial.
The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any act of corruption and police misconduct, as the Force takes every allegation of extortion and abuse of power extremely seriously.
Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi
The IGP has however reassured the general public that the force will continue to investigate all allegations levelled against erring officers of the Force thoroughly.
In pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector-General of Police has mandated severe consequences for any officer, no matter how highly ranked, found culpable, acting as a deterrent to those who may seek to compromise the integrity of the Force.
Adejobi also said that the IGP has also scheduled a workshop for police officers on child care and effective investigation.
