Inspector Michael Odey, one of the officers under the Rivers State Police Command, was fired for extortion, according to the command.
In accordance with protocol, two additional agents implicated in the conduct had also been questioned and recommended for termination.
The three agents, Inspector Michael Odey and two Assistant Superintendents of Police, Talent Mungo and Doubara Edonyabo, were taken into custody after it was claimed that in December 2023, they abducted and demanded $3000 from two travelers.
The three policemen threatened to take the victims to Lagos zonal command and identified themselves as agents of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The police officers who accused the victims of committing fraud allegedly took them to the states of Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers.
The two travelers allegedly agreed to pay the police officers $3,000 in extortion.
Following the victims’ complaint of the incident to police authorities, the three cops were taken into custody. The victims received the money after it was taken from them.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, February 14, the state police command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, verified the Inspector’s termination and the recommendation that the two ASPs be fired.
According to Iringe-Koko, the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Inspector General of Police (IGP) are involved in the two ASPs’ disciplinary proceedings.
The Rivers State Police Command is providing an update on an ongoing investigation into an extortion incident involving three police officers, according to the statement.
“In keeping with our pledges of openness and responsibility, we are offering the following details: Following a comprehensive investigation, two officers have been formally questioned and are recommended for dismissal in accordance with established protocols.
“The Force Secretary has received this recommendation and will take the appropriate steps. With the conclusion of the Orderly Room Proceedings, Inspector Michael Odey’s case has advanced.”
The state police PRO went on to say that AIG Alifa Omata, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Yenagoa, had evaluated the findings and upheld the decision to terminate the employee’s employment. Omata was relieved of his duties with effect from February 7, 2024.
“All three officers remain in custody as investigations into two additional cases of a similar nature continue,” she stated. We’ll offer you updates on these investigations as they happen.
“To ensure a fair and just resolution, the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission evaluate the Assistant Superintendents of Police Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo’s disciplinary proceedings.
“The Rivers State Police Command urges citizens to report any misconduct by law enforcement officials as soon as they become aware of it.”
Iringe-Koko promised that all reports would be treated seriously and that the proper steps would be taken to maintain justice and fairness.
