The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered the immediate detention of three police inspectors following credible allegations of extortion and professional misconduct during a patrol operation.
The incident, which has sparked widespread public concern, reportedly involved the police officers unlawfully stopping a civilian, conducting an illegal search of the individual's mobile device, and forcefully extorting a sum of money from the victim before releasing him.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the affected officers have been identified and are currently in custody, pending the outcome of an internal disciplinary process.
“The officers involved have been taken into custody and appropriate disciplinary procedures have been initiated,” Ikenga stated. “The Commissioner of Police has made it clear that he will not tolerate any form of unprofessional conduct from officers under his command.”
CP Orutugu, who personally reviewed the preliminary findings, described the officers’ actions as not only a violation of the Police Code of Conduct but also a betrayal of the public’s trust. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to upholding accountability, transparency, and ethical policing in Anambra State.
“The Nigeria Police Force under my watch in this command will not shield any personnel found engaging in corrupt or abusive practices,” CP Orutugu affirmed. “Every officer must operate within the confines of the law and uphold the rights and dignity of all citizens.”
He also encouraged members of the public to report any encounters of misconduct or abuse by law enforcement personnel, assuring them that their complaints would be handled with the utmost seriousness and confidentiality.
This move has been welcomed by civil society groups and concerned citizens who view it as a step toward restoring confidence in the police force amidst ongoing calls for institutional reform and accountability within the system.
Further investigations are ongoing, and the command has promised to keep the public informed as developments unfold.