IGP Egbetokun condemns alleged Police extortion in Bayelsa, other states

IGP Egbetokun

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Friday condemned alleged extortions by some officers of the Force in various states, particularly involving officers of the Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.

This was disclosed in a statement made available to the press in Abuja by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.

According to the statement, the officers identified as ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine were accused of extorting N10 million from a group of young Nigerians.

The statement further explained that the money had been recovered through the efforts of the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16, and the officers have since been detained and are undergoing an orderly room trial.

The Nigeria Police Force, under the leadership of IGP Egbetokun, reiterated its zero-tolerance policy for corruption and police misconduct, emphasising that every allegation of extortion and abuse of power is taken very seriously.

The IGP reassured the public that the Force will thoroughly investigate all allegations against erring officers. As part of a commitment to restorative justice, the Inspector-General “has mandated severe consequences for any officer, regardless of rank, found guilty of misconduct,” serving as a deterrent to others who might compromise the integrity of the Force.

The IGP further urged members of the public to report any misconduct using the following Police helplines and contacts: +2347056792065, +2349133333785, +2349133333786, @PoliceNG on X, @ngpolice on Facebook, and @nigeriapoliceforce on Instagram. Complaints can also be directed via email at pressforabuja@police.gov.ng or through the police website at www.npf.gov.ng.

It added that similarly, “to guarantee that officers within the Force receive adequate training in child care and protection, as well as in effective investigations considerate of vulnerable individuals, especially children in conflict with the law, the IGP has rescheduled the workshop with all Heads of Police investigative units to take place on Monday, November 11, 2024.”

According to the statement, “The workshop will not only focus on enhancing technical capabilities but will also emphasise the essential ethical principles when dealing with sensitive cases to create a child-friendly police system in Nigeria.”

“By emphasising compassion, transparency, and adherence to modern investigative techniques, the Nigeria Police Force aims to foster a culture of professionalism and accountability among its personnel, thereby strengthening public trust and confidence in the organisation.”

ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE