Extortion: IGP orders’severe’ punishment for corrupt officers
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, has criticised suspected extortions by some police personnel in certain sections of the country and has issued “severe” punishment to corrupt officers.
He mentioned the case involving cops from Zone 16 Zonal Headquarters in Yenegoa, including ASP Emmanuel Ubong, Inspector Nse Okon, Inspector Adiewere Collins, and Inspector Kuromare Marine.
A gang of young Nigerians accused the officers of extorting $10 million.
ACP Olumiyiwa Adejobi, the Force’s Public Relations Officer, issued a statement on Friday saying that the new Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 16 has recovered the funds.
Adejobi further stated that the officers are now in detention and facing an orderly room trial.
The statement continued, “The Nigeria Police Force, led by IGP Egbetokun, has a zero-tolerance policy for any act of corruption or police misconduct, and the Force takes every allegation of extortion and abuse of authority very seriously.
“The IGP has, however, assured the public that the police will continue to thoroughly investigate all claims made against erring officers.
“In the pursuit of restorative justice, the Inspector-General of Police has mandated severe sanctions for any officer found complicit, whatever of rank, in order to dissuade anyone who may seek to undermine the Force’s integrity.
Adejobi also stated that the IGP has organised a session for police personnel on child care and effective investigation.
Similarly, to ensure that officers within the Force receive adequate training in child care and protection, as well as effective investigations that consider vulnerable individuals, particularly children in conflict with the law, the IGP has rescheduled the workshop with all Heads of Police investigative units for Monday, November 11, 2024.
“The workshop will not only focus on improving technical capabilities, but will also emphasise critical ethical principles when dealing with sensitive cases in order to create a child-friendly police system in Nigeria.”
“By emphasising compassion, transparency, and adherence to modern investigation techniques,” the Nigeria Police Force hopes to promote a culture of professionalism and accountability among its officers, thereby increasing public trust and confidence in the organisation.