The Rivers State Police Command has commenced an investigation into allegations of extortion involving a senior police officer and other personnel following the circulation of a viral video and reports on social media.
The Command disclosed that the officers accused in the incident, including ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffrey, have been arrested and detained pending the outcome of investigations ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Command said it had taken the allegations seriously and would not condone any form of misconduct by its personnel.
According to the statement, the allegations stemmed from reports and video footage circulating online which accused the officers of extorting money from members of the public while performing their official duties.
The police authorities described the alleged conduct as contrary to the values, ethics and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered their arrest, detention and immediate investigation of the allegation,” the statement said.
READ ALSO: Rivers Police Arrest Three Over Killing Of 55-Year-Old Driver, Recover Vehicle
CP Adepoju reiterated the Command’s zero-tolerance stance on extortion, illegal collection of money and other forms of unprofessional conduct, stressing that officers are expected to uphold the highest standards of accountability and respect for citizens’ rights.
He assured residents that the investigation would be conducted in a transparent, thorough and impartial manner, adding that any officer found guilty would face disciplinary measures in line with the provisions of the law and the Nigeria Police Act.
The Commissioner further noted that the Command remained committed to strengthening public confidence in the police through professional service delivery and adherence to ethical policing standards.
He also commended members of the public for reporting alleged misconduct and urged residents to continue providing information on cases involving corruption, abuse of office and other unethical practices through the Command’s established complaint channels.
The Rivers State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, integrity and quality policing, assuring residents that measures were being taken to ensure accountability among officers serving across the state.