By Onyeanya Ebere
The Anambra State Police Command has ordered the detention and internal disciplinary trial of three police inspectors over an alleged case of extortion.
This was disclosed in a statement issued Thursday in Awka by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
According to Ikenga, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the conduct of the officers who, during a patrol in Awka, allegedly accosted an unsuspecting member of the public, unlawfully searched his phone, and extorted money from him.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, on June 11, ordered the detention of three police inspectors over allegations of corruption,” the statement read.
“The CP also directed the immediate commencement of internal disciplinary proceedings against the officers. During interrogation, he expressed displeasure at the officers’ unprofessional behavior, which included forcibly searching a citizen’s phone and extorting money during a security patrol.”
Ikenga said the Commissioner reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to discipline, transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
He warned that the force would not tolerate abuse of office or any form of misconduct.
“Such misconduct not only violates the ethics of policing but also undermines public trust in the force,” the CP stated. “Your character widens the trust gap between the citizens and the police.”
