The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has dismissed, arrested, and initiated prosecution against several police officers implicated in cases of armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, stealing, and abuse of office in Rivers State.
In a statement signed by the Force PRO, DCP Anthony Okon Pplacid, the action underscores the Force’s commitment to discipline, accountability, and institutional reform, stressing that officers involved in criminal activities would not be shielded regardless of rank.
In a statement, the police leadership under the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, said investigations uncovered a criminal syndicate involving serving officers attached to Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa.
The officers, Inspectors Ayanniyi Jelili, Durojaye Francis, and Olayemi Titus, were accused of engaging in armed robbery, kidnapping, and extortion through illegal patrol operations in Port Harcourt.
According to the police, the suspects allegedly abducted victims during unlawful stop-and-search operations and forced them to transfer money from their bank and cryptocurrency accounts.
Three other officers identified as Inspector Awele Ogbogu, Inspector Prosper Aghotor, and Corporal Favour Onwuchekwa were declared wanted in connection with the case.
Police said investigations led to the recovery of three Toyota Sienna buses allegedly used for the operations, as well as ₦7.3 million traced to the criminal activities.
In a separate case, five officers formerly attached to the Department of Operations, Rivers State Command, were dismissed over alleged involvement in kidnapping, extortion, stealing, and official corruption.
The dismissed officers are Inspectors John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu, and Anele Ikechukwu, who were accused of abducting citizens, extorting money through unlawful bank transfers, and dispossessing victims of valuables while operating under the guise of official patrol duties.
The police said the officers had undergone orderly room trial proceedings and that the case file had been forwarded for prosecution on charges bordering on conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion, and official corruption.
The Force urged members of the public to continue reporting cases of police misconduct and human rights violations through established complaint channels, reaffirming its commitment to professional and accountable policing.
