The Nigerian Police Headquarters in Abuja has ordered the detention of four officers accused of extorting N10 million from youths in Bayelsa State.
The officers in question are Assistant Superintendent of Police Emmanuel Ubong, and three inspectors—Nse Okon, Adiewere Collins, and Kuromare Marine.
These officers are now facing an internal disciplinary process known as an “orderly room trial.”
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the detention and identified the accused officers.
According to Adejobi, the police leadership under the newly appointed Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, is determined to root out corruption within the force.
The incident has raised questions about police conduct in Bayelsa and beyond.
IGP Egbetokun has expressed deep disappointment over the actions of these officers.
“The Inspector-General of Police has condemned alleged extortions by some officers of the force,” Adejobi said, quoting Egbetokun’s response to the incident.
The IGP has launched a full investigation into the alleged extortion.
He promised that the force would thoroughly examine any accusations of misconduct involving its personnel.
“The force will continue to investigate all allegations levelled against erring officers,” Adejobi assured.
This incident has cast a spotlight on growing concerns over the ethical conduct of some officers.
Reports suggest that the alleged extortion came to light when the victims lodged complaints with senior police officials.
This led to the swift intervention of Adebola Hamzat, the new assistant inspector-general of police (AIG) heading Zone 16.
The N10 million allegedly taken from the young people has now been recovered, according to Adejobi.
“AIG Hamzat has played a crucial role in this recovery,” Adejobi stated.
He also confirmed that the police headquarters was committed to holding the accused officers accountable.
In addition to the current charges, IGP Egbetokun has pledged strict disciplinary action against any officer found guilty of corruption.
He emphasized that no rank would protect any officer who violates the force’s integrity.
“In pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector-General of Police has mandated severe consequences for any officer, no matter how highly ranked, found culpable,” Adejobi relayed.
This promise of accountability has sparked public interest, with many citizens expressing frustration over similar incidents.
Meanwhile, the Inspector-General is also facing criticism over other issues within the police.
Some reports allege that police tracking systems, meant to catch kidnappers and other criminals, have instead been misused by officers.
In a damning accusation, IGP Egbetokun stated that certain officers in the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) have abused this technology.
He alleged that some police officers have used tracking devices to monitor political rivals and personal acquaintances rather than pursuing criminals.
Egbetokun described this misuse as a “betrayal of public trust.”
The IGP’s comments have intensified the conversation about internal police reforms.
Public reaction to the incident has been mixed, with some welcoming the IGP’s stance and others questioning its lasting impact.
The incident in Bayelsa comes as police authorities nationwide work to regain public trust.
The police headquarters, in a statement, reiterated its commitment to transparency and justice.
“We are taking this matter seriously,” ACP Adejobi affirmed.
He also urged the public to report any misconduct by officers, promising swift action.
Many Nigerians, however, remain cautious, awaiting proof of real change.
IGP Egbetokun has promised to enforce discipline and make an example of officers who betray their oath.
