The Anambra State Police Command has taken disciplinary action against three police inspectors accused of extorting money from a civilian during a patrol in Awka.
This was revealed in a statement issued on Thursday in Awka by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga.
Ikenga explained that the Commissioner of Police in Anambra, CP Ikioye Orutugu, strongly condemned the actions of the officers, who reportedly stopped an unsuspecting individual, conducted a phone search without legal grounds, and demanded money from the victim.
According to the statement, CP Orutugu, on June 11, ordered the arrest and detention of the three officers involved, describing their behavior as a violation of professional standards.
“The CP further directed the immediate commencement of internal disciplinary proceedings of the force against the officers,” the statement read.
During a session with the accused officers, CP Orutugu expressed deep disappointment over their conduct.
“The CP during interrogation of the officers frowned at the poor character exhibited when they accosted an unsuspecting member of the public during a security patrol, forcibly searched his phone and extorted money from the victim,” Ikenga said.
Reaffirming the core values of the Nigeria Police Force, CP Orutugu emphasized its commitment to transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
“The CP noted that such anomalies, aside from negating the professional calling of the police, are unacceptable as they affect the entire execution of policies and directives.
‘Your character will widen the trust gap between the citizens and the force,’ the CP said.”
He further reiterated that any abuse of office or unprofessional behavior would not be tolerated under his leadership.
