The Rivers State Police Command has commenced an investigation into allegations of extortion involving a police officer, ASP Omomefe Akin Geoffrey, and other personnel following the circulation of a viral video and reports on social media.
The Command said it viewed the allegations with utmost seriousness, stressing that any act of extortion, illegal collection of money or abuse of office runs contrary to the ethics, values and professional standards of the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered the immediate arrest and detention of the officers allegedly involved pending the outcome of investigations.
According to the statement, the police hierarchy acted swiftly after becoming aware of the allegations, underscoring the Command’s commitment to accountability and discipline within its ranks.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered for their arrest, detention and immediate investigation of the allegation,” the statement said.
CP Adepoju reiterated that the Command would not tolerate extortion or any other form of misconduct by officers under any circumstance, noting that such actions undermine public confidence in law enforcement and damage the image of the Force.
He emphasized the need for officers to conduct themselves professionally while discharging their duties, adding that policing must be guided by integrity, respect for human rights and adherence to the rule of law.
The police commissioner assured residents of the state that the investigation would be thorough, transparent and impartial, promising that any officer found culpable would face appropriate disciplinary measures in line with the provisions of the law and the Nigeria Police Act.
The development comes amid increasing public concerns over allegations of misconduct, harassment and extortion by some security personnel across the country, with civil society groups and citizens frequently calling for greater accountability within law enforcement agencies.
While assuring members of the public that the Command remains committed to professional policing, CP Adepoju commended citizens who brought the alleged incident to public attention and urged residents to continue reporting cases of misconduct, corruption and abuse of office through official complaint channels.
The Rivers State Police Command further reaffirmed its commitment to discipline, integrity and quality service delivery, stating that efforts would continue to ensure that officers uphold the highest standards of professionalism in the discharge of their responsibilities.
The Command also encouraged members of the public to make use of its Complaint Response Unit and other established channels to report any case of police misconduct for prompt action.
