Rivers CP Orders Arrest Of ASP, Other Officers Over Alleged Extortion

The Rivers State Commissioner of Police (CP), Olugbenga Adepoju, has ordered the arrest, detention and immediate investigation of an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Omomefe Akin Geoffrey, and other officers accused of extorting members of the public while on duty.

The officers were allegedly captured in a video circulating on social media collecting money from members of the public during official duties.

The Rivers State Police Command said it had commenced action on the matter, describing the allegation as serious and inconsistent with the values and professional standards expected of officers of the Nigeria Police Force.

Naija News reports that the spokesperson for the command, ASP Blessing Kaborlo Agabe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday.

She said, “Consequently, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga A. Adepoju, psc, mnips, has ordered for their arrest, detention and immediate investigation of the allegation.

“The Commissioner of Police reiterates that extortion, illegal collection of money and any form of unprofessional conduct by police personnel will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”

Agabe said the commissioner emphasised that the command remained committed to ensuring that officers conduct themselves in a manner that promotes public trust, accountability and respect for human rights.

The police spokesperson said Adepoju had assured members of the public that the investigation would be thorough, transparent and impartial.

“CP Adepoju assures the public that the investigation will be thorough, transparent and impartial. Any officer found culpable will face appropriate disciplinary actions in accordance with the provisions of the law and the Nigeria Police Act,” she added.

The command thanked members of the public for drawing its attention to the alleged misconduct and urged residents to continue reporting cases of corruption, abuse of office and unprofessional behaviour by officers through established complaint channels.

Agabe said the command would continue to uphold discipline, integrity and accountability in the discharge of its duties across the state.

“The Rivers State Police Command appreciates members of the public for bringing such incidents to its attention and encourages citizens to continue reporting cases of misconduct, corruption, and abuse of office through the established complaint channels.

“The Command remains resolute in its commitment to professional policing, discipline, integrity and quality service delivery to all residents of Rivers State,” the statement added.