The Abia State Police Command says it has launched an investigation into a traffic officer captured in a viral video allegedly attempting to extort money from a tricycle (keke) rider in Umuahia.
The incident reportedly took place at Azikiwe Junction by Aba Road, where the officer was confronted on camera by a woman questioning his conduct.
Although the officer denied the accusation, the keke rider in the footage appeared to confirm it and displayed the cash he was allegedly asked to hand over.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed that the officer had been identified and the case referred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for proper inquiry.
“The Abia State Police Command is aware of the trending video showing one of our traffic officers allegedly attempting to extort a keke rider. The officer involved has been identified, and investigation into the incident is ongoing at the state CID,” Chinaka stated.
The Commissioner of Police, Danladi Isa, assured residents that the command would not tolerate misconduct by its officers.
“In line with the vision of the Inspector-General of Police, our officers and men are expected to remain professional, service-driven, and people-friendly in the discharge of their duties,” Isa said.
“We have zero tolerance for any act that could bring the image of the police into disrepute.”
The Command also encouraged members of the public to continue reporting cases of harassment or extortion by law enforcement officers, promising that such complaints would be thoroughly investigated.
