The Nigeria Police Force in Edo State has dismissed five officers implicated in a criminal network accused of extorting and harassing residents in Benin City and surrounding areas.
The development was announced on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, who revealed that the syndicate comprised about 10 individuals, including serving and dismissed police personnel, Point of Sale operators, and commercial drivers.
According to the statement, the group had been under investigation following multiple complaints from members of the public alleging abduction, harassment, and extortion by individuals posing as law enforcement officers.
“The command received several complaints from residents who alleged that individuals impersonating police officers were involved in harassment, abduction, and extortion within Benin City,” Ikoedem said.
She explained that the suspects reportedly operated along the Teboga axis off Aduwawa, where they targeted unsuspecting citizens, forced them into vehicles, and transported them across different locations before coercing them to withdraw money through POS operators.
“Victims were unlawfully stopped, taken around the city, and eventually forced under duress to make payments through POS operators,” she stated.
Disturbed by the allegations, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered a covert investigation, which led to the dismantling of the syndicate through intelligence-led operations.
Preliminary findings indicated that the suspects, including some police personnel, formed a coordinated group responsible for multiple cases of extortion and abduction. They reportedly used police gear to deceive victims and carry out their activities.
“The suspects exploited police equipment to perpetrate these crimes, thereby bringing the image of the Force into disrepute,” Ikoedem added.
She confirmed that all serving officers linked to the syndicate have been dismissed, while others involved will face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
“Those who are serving personnel have been dismissed and will be charged to court after investigations are concluded,” she said.
The command also called on victims of the syndicate to come forward with useful information to support ongoing investigations and prosecution.
In addition, the police issued a warning to POS operators and merchants to avoid facilitating illegal transactions, stressing that anyone found complicit would be arrested and prosecuted.
“POS operators must be cautious of individuals, including those in uniform, attempting to use their services for unlawful activities. Any operator found culpable will face the law,” she warned.
The Edo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to restoring public trust and ensuring accountability within the system, in line with the directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
“The command remains committed to sanitising the system and ensuring that no one is above the law,” the statement added.
