The Nigeria Police Force has initiated a thorough investigation into five police officers from the Zone 6 Police Headquarters in Cross River State. These officers are accused of abducting an individual and extorting N3 million from the victim while on patrol along the Ikom-Calabar highway.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer, SP Nelson Okpabi, confirmed that the officers are now in custody and are being investigated for their alleged involvement in corrupt practices and unprofessional conduct.
“The Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 6 headquarters Calabar, AIG Jonathan Towuru, frowns at the unprofessional conduct of some police officers alleged to have abducted and fraudulently extorted N3,000,000 from an individual last week,” stated Okpabi.
He further explained that AIG Towuru has ordered a comprehensive investigation to uncover the facts behind these allegations. The goal is to ensure that appropriate disciplinary actions are taken based on the findings of the investigation. “The AIG has ordered a high-powered investigation into the matter to uncover the facts behind the allegations for an informed disciplinary measure to be taken,” Okpabi added.
The statement highlighted that the accused officers were on patrol duty along the Ikom-Calabar highway when the alleged incident occurred. The authorities have assured the public that the investigation will be thorough and fair, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining professionalism within the force.
“The five Officers have been taken into custody and investigation commenced,” Okpabi stated, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. He also mentioned that AIG Towuru is determined to enforce strict disciplinary measures against any officer found guilty of misconduct to deter others from engaging in similar behavior.