The Nigeria Police Force has dismissed five inspectors over their alleged involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, extortion, and official corruption. The Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Okon Placid, disclosed this on Thursday, stating that the dismissed officers were attached to the Department of Operations (DOPS) Patrol Team in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Details of the Dismissed Officers
The officers identified as John Okoi, Inspector Eyibo Asuquo, Inspector Udo Ndipmong, Inspector Bright Nwachukwu, and Inspector Anele Ikechukwu were found to have a prima facie case of conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, official corruption, and extortion established against them.
Pattern of Criminal Conduct
According to DCP Placid, the misconduct came to light through petitions submitted to the Assistant Inspector-General of Police, Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, by the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation on behalf of multiple victims. Investigations revealed that the suspects, while armed and operating in minibuses, routinely intercepted unsuspecting citizens during illegal stop-and-search operations. Victims were coerced into revealing their banking PINs and account details, after which funds were unlawfully transferred from their bank and cryptocurrency accounts.
Incidents and Locations
The criminal activities occurred on separate occasions between September 2025 and January 2026 at multiple locations across Rivers State. The suspects falsely presented themselves as operatives of Zone 16 Headquarters, Yenagoa, to intimidate victims and evade suspicion. Specific cases include:
- Mr. Felix Favour: Abducted at gunpoint along Aba Road; funds forcibly taken from cryptocurrency wallet and bank account totaling NGN 3,605,000+ (including USD 4,000 equivalent).
- Mr. Okparaocha David Ugochukwu: Abducted, cash extorted, gold jewellery and wristwatch stolen valued at NGN 7,300,000+ (cash and valuables).
- Mr. John Godstime: Abducted along NTA Road; ATM details obtained by force, account drained of NGN 1,500,000.
Status and Next Steps
Following orderly room proceedings, all five officers have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force with immediate effect. The case file has been forwarded to the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, with charges expected to be filed within 30 days.
The Nigeria Police Force stated that the actions of these officers represent a grave betrayal of the trust placed in them by the people of Rivers State and the nation at large. They do not reflect the values, standards, or professional conduct expected of members of the Force.
