The Rivers State Police Command has taken action against officers involved in a $3,000 extortion case. Inspector Michael Odey has been dismissed following an investigation into his role, along with two Assistant Superintendents of Police, Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo, in the kidnapping and extortion of two individuals.
The officers were accused of transporting their victims across three states before extorting the equivalent of N4.2 million from them. The money has since been recovered and returned to the owners, according to Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the state police command.
In a statement released in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, Iringe-Koko announced Odey’s dismissal after the conclusion of orderly room proceedings. The two Assistant Superintendents of Police have been recommended for dismissal, pending review by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission for a fair and just resolution.
The statement read, “After a thorough investigation, two officers have been officially queried and recommended for dismissal as per established procedures. This recommendation has been swiftly forwarded to the Force Secretary for necessary action. Inspector Michael Odey’s case has progressed with the conclusion of orderly room proceedings. The findings have been reviewed by AIG Alifa Omata, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Yenagoa, who has upheld the recommendation of dismissal from the Force and has been relieved of his duty, effective February 7, 2024.”
The spokesperson emphasized the commitment to transparency and accountability in addressing police misconduct. She also mentioned that all three officers remain in custody as investigations continue into two additional cases of similar nature. The disciplinary process for the two Assistant Superintendents of Police involves review by the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission.
The Rivers State Police Command encourages residents to promptly report any misconduct by law enforcement agents, assuring that all reports will be handled seriously, and appropriate actions will be taken to uphold fairness and justice.
