Residents of Aboh Mbaise in Imo State have been gripped by anger and fear following allegations that security operatives forced young people to transfer money to POS accounts at gunpoint. The chilling incidents reportedly occurred at a notorious checkpoint along the Enyiogugu Mbaise road, leaving the community in shock and demanding justice.
Eyewitnesses disclosed that over 50 youths were coerced into transferring money directly from their bank accounts to designated POS accounts under threats of violence. This troubling case has brought to light a disturbing abuse of power by those entrusted with the community’s security.
A victim, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, recounted his ordeal: “I was on my way to visit my family when they stopped me at the checkpoint. They searched my belongings, asked for my ATM card, and forced me to transfer ₦10,000 to a POS account. When I hesitated, they pointed a gun at me.”
He added that the operatives confiscated his phone temporarily to ensure compliance. Similar accounts from other victims have corroborated the story, painting a grim picture of law enforcement activities in the area.
Angered by the reports, residents have turned to traditional rulers and community leaders for intervention. One notable figure, Eze Leo Nwokocha, has been called upon to mediate between the community and the police authorities to put an end to the harassment.
Speaking on behalf of affected youths, Stanley, an eyewitness and local activist, urged immediate action. “This cannot continue,” he declared. “Our young people are now avoiding this road entirely, but that only exposes them to greater risks of robbery and kidnapping. We need the authorities to intervene before it escalates further.”
In the wake of these incidents, many youths in the area have opted to travel at night to avoid the checkpoint. However, this decision has its own dangers. Imo State has grappled with persistent security challenges, including a rise in kidnappings and armed robberies. Residents fear that the extortion scheme will worsen the state’s already precarious security situation.
A market trader, Mrs. Chinyere Okafor, lamented the impact of the harassment on local businesses. “Even our customers are afraid to come to this side of town,” she said. “How are we supposed to survive when both robbers and the people meant to protect us are threats?”
The allegations have reached the Imo State Police Command, prompting public outrage and demands for accountability. In a statement released on Friday, the state police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, assured citizens that the matter was being investigated.
“This complaint is acknowledged,” Okoye said. “Necessary steps have been initiated to look into this and ensure that officers found culpable are severely sanctioned.”
The spokesperson added that the command is committed to restoring trust between the police and the community. “We encourage anyone with evidence or who has been a victim of such acts to come forward,” he said.
This is not the first time that accusations of misconduct have been leveled against security operatives in Imo State. Over the years, there have been recurring reports of extortion, harassment, and abuse of power by officers at checkpoints.
Civil society organizations in the region have also weighed in on the issue, with many calling for systemic reforms in the police force. “This is a failure of oversight,” said Ngozi Uche, a legal advocate with the Imo Human Rights Initiative. “Without accountability, these officers believe they can act with impunity. The authorities must demonstrate zero tolerance for this behavior.”
Public outrage has intensified, with demands for swift justice and reforms within the police force. Residents are urging Governor Hope Uzodinma to prioritize the safety and well-being of Imo citizens by addressing the alleged extortion and improving oversight mechanisms.