The Rivers State Police Command has arrested and detained officers accused of extorting motorists following the circulation of a viral video showing the alleged misconduct.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Kaborlo, said the action was taken on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, after reports linked ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffrey and other officers to the alleged extortion of members of the public.
The allegations emerged after social media activist, Comrade Phils, accused a team of officers attached to the Old GRA Police Station in Port Harcourt of targeting motorists, particularly drivers of vehicles with tinted windows, and demanding money despite the presentation of valid permits.
According to the claims, the officers allegedly disregarded factory-fitted and officially approved tinted-glass permits and demanded payments from motorists.
The police command described the allegations as serious and contrary to the ethics, values, and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered the arrest, detention, and immediate investigation of the officers involved,” the statement said.
Adepoju reiterated the command’s zero-tolerance stance on extortion, illegal collection of money, and other forms of misconduct by police personnel, stressing that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action in accordance with the law and the provisions of the Nigeria Police Act.
He assured residents that the investigation would be conducted in a transparent and impartial manner and urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of misconduct, corruption, and abuse of office through official complaint channels.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, integrity, and quality service delivery across Rivers State.
