Nigeria Police Investigate Allegations of Extortion and Car Theft by Imo State Police Officers

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The car dealer alleged that the policemen introduced themselves as officers from the State CID, Benin City

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered an investigation into allegations of abuse of office by some officers of the Imo State Police Command.

The investigation follows a complaint by a car dealer in Edo State, Anthony Osayande, who accused a team of policemen led by John Ebute of forcefully invading his car stand, seizing five exotic cars, and arresting six of his staff members.

According to Mr. Osayande, the incident occurred on October 17, 2024, while he was on a business trip. He claimed that he received a distress call from one of his salesmen, informing him of the policemen’s presence on his business premises.

The car dealer alleged that the policemen introduced themselves as officers from the State CID, Benin City, and claimed they needed his attention. However, during the call, Mr. Osayande said he overheard a background command to arrest his staff.

Upon his return, Mr. Osayande discovered that all six of his salesmen had been arrested, and five luxury vehicles worth N132m had been taken away by the officers.

The Inspector-General of Police has directed the DCP of the IGP Monitoring Unit at Force Headquarters, Abuja, to investigate the allegations against the policemen.

A wireless message addressed to the Imo State Commissioner of Police accused the policemen of failing to appear for interrogation, despite being summoned. The message stated that the IG was displeased with their absence and had directed the O/C Provost to escort some officers from the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, along with the original case file and five vehicles, to respond to the allegations against them.

The Force spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, could not be reached for comment, while one of the police officers invited in connection with the matter, Sergeant Alice, denied knowledge of the allegations.

The spokesperson for Imo State Police Command, Henry Okoye, said the vehicles would be returned if they were not stolen. He assured that the complaint would be investigated and that the Nigeria Police Force is a regimental and disciplined organisation that follows directives to the letter.