The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, accountability and internal reform following the dismissal, arrest and prosecution of officers implicated in cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, stealing and abuse of office in Rivers State and surrounding areas.
The Force said the actions of the affected personnel represent a “gross betrayal” of its ethical standards and professional values, adding that its leadership remains determined to identify and remove criminal elements within its ranks, irrespective of rank or position.
In one of the cases, investigations uncovered a criminal syndicate involving serving officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, including Inspectors Ayanniyi Jelili, Durojaye Francis and Olayemi Titus. They were accused of engaging in armed robbery, kidnapping and extortion while conducting illegal patrols in Port Harcourt.
According to the investigation, the officers allegedly abducted victims during unlawful stop-and-search operations and forced access to their bank and cryptocurrency accounts, extorting millions of naira in the process.
The probe led to the arrest of the three officers, while three alleged accomplices — Inspectors Awele Ogbogu, Prosper Aghotor and Corporal Favour Onwuchekwa — are currently at large. Items recovered include three Toyota Sienna vehicles allegedly used in the operations and ₦7,338,800 traced to proceeds of the crimes. The suspects were also said to have operated with firearms in multiple incidents targeting unsuspecting residents.
In a separate investigation, the Force said it uncovered another syndicate involving officers formerly attached to the Department of Operations, Rivers State Command, including Inspectors John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu and Anele Ikechukwu.
The officers were found culpable of organised kidnapping, extortion, stealing and official corruption, allegedly abducting citizens and coercing them into making unlawful transfers from bank and cryptocurrency accounts, as well as dispossessing victims of valuables under the guise of official patrol duties.
The implicated officers have been subjected to orderly room proceedings and dismissed from service, while case files have been forwarded for prosecution on charges including conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion and related offences.
The Police urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of misconduct, extortion and human rights violations through appropriate complaint channels for prompt investigation and disciplinary action.
Reiterating its stance, the Force said it remains committed to building a professional, transparent and accountable policing system anchored on the rule of law and protection of citizens’ rights.
