The Rivers State Police Command has suspended two policemen and withheld their wages for allegedly extorting $3000 from two travellers in Abia State.
Recall that three police officers, including an Inspector and two Assistant Superintendents of Police, were accused of kidnapping the two men in Aba, the capital of Abia State, and transporting them to Port Harcourt before robbing them.
Following their detention, the command conducted an orderly room trial and eventually terminated the Inspector, while the two ASPs were officially interrogated and recommended for dismissal.
However, a statement published in Port Harcourt on Sunday by the State Police Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Kokoin Port Harcourt, stated that the two ASPs have been suspended and their salaries have been stopped.
Iringe-Koko said that their suspension was approved by the Police Service Commission, and that the two will face the Force Disciplinary Committee, which handles disciplinary issues involving senior officers.
The statement read, “The Rivers State Police Command hereby issues an official update regarding a case involving three Police Officers who have been accused of engaging in acts of extortion.
“As previously communicated during our press briefing on February 13, 2024, Inspector Michael Odey was found guilty and subsequently dismissed from duty, effective from 07/02/2024, following thorough Orderly room proceedings and a comprehensive review conducted by the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16.
“Furthermore, during the aforementioned briefing, we provided information regarding the ongoing reviews pertaining to ASP Doubara Edonyabo and ASP Talent Mungo, as their respective ranks required approval from the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission.
“Today, we hereby inform the public that the Police Service Commission has officially authorised the suspension from duty of ASP Doubara Edonyabo and ASP Talent Mungo, effective from 29/02/2024. Additionally, the salaries of the implicated officers have been stopped.
“The two officers will face the Force Disciplinary Committee, which is responsible for addressing disciplinary issues involving senior officers.
“Update would soon be given on other cases involving these officers.”
She added, “This decisive course of action serves as a strong deterrent to any police officer who may contemplate engaging in misconduct and unequivocally reaffirms our unwavering commitment to upholding the fundamental principles of credible policing in Rivers State.
“Under the leadership of Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu, the Rivers State Police Command remains steadfast in its dedication to maintaining discipline among its officers.
“We wholeheartedly encourage residents to promptly report any instances of unprofessional behavior or misconduct displayed by our officers. Reports can be made through dedicated channels. Rest assured, all reports will be handled with the utmost confidentiality.
“We persistently strive to foster a safe and secure environment for all residents of Rivers State, and we pledge to continue working diligently in the best interests of the public we serve.”