The Enugu State Police Command has initiated legal proceedings against officers from the Awkunanaw Police Station in Garriki, Enugu, following allegations of extorting ₦1 million from a traveler. The incident came to light when the victim’s brother, identified as @Mr_Robmichael1 on X (formerly Twitter), reported that his sibling was forcibly taken to an undisclosed location where the officers compelled him to withdraw the substantial sum.
According to the victim’s brother, the officers not only extorted ₦1 million but also imposed an additional ₦50,000 as a Point of Sale (POS) transaction fee. He detailed the ordeal on social media, stating, “Nigerian Police officer in Enugu used POS to collect 1m from my younger brother after kidnapping him and took him to unknown village.”
Upon receiving the complaint, the Divisional Police Officer of Awkunanaw Police Station, Mr. Chukwuegu Longinus, promptly intervened. He located the checkpoint where the incident occurred, identified the officers involved, and mandated the immediate refund of the extorted funds. The victim’s brother confirmed the recovery, expressing gratitude to both the DPO and the State Police Public Relations Officer, Dan Ndukwe, for their swift action.
Reacting to the incident, Dan Ndukwe condemned the actions of the implicated officers, labeling their behavior as “totally unacceptable.” He emphasized that merely refunding the money was insufficient and assured the public that the officers would face appropriate disciplinary measures. Ndukwe stated, “The police officers involved will have to dance to the music they tuned on. We don’t have a place for this in the NPF.”
This case is not isolated; reports indicate a troubling pattern of police extortion across Nigeria. In September 2024, four officers in Lagos were tried for allegedly extorting ₦1 million from National Youth Service Corps members. Additionally, a recent report highlighted that police officers have illicitly obtained tens of millions of naira from citizens in 2024 alone.
The Enugu State Police Command’s prompt response in this instance reflects a commitment to accountability and justice. However, the recurrence of such incidents underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the Nigeria Police Force to eradicate corruption and restore public trust.
