Five inspectors attached to the Department of Operations of the Nigeria Police Force in Rivers State have been dismissed over their alleged involvement in armed robbery, kidnapping, extortion and conspiracy.
Key Highlights:
The dismissed officers were identified as John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu and Anele Ikechukwu.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Placid, the officers allegedly carried out a series of criminal operations between September 2025 and January 2026 across Rivers State.
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In a statement issued in Port Harcourt through the state police spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, the police authorities said the officers operated in minibuses and mounted illegal stop-and-search operations targeting unsuspecting residents.
The police said the dismissed inspectors allegedly intercepted victims at gunpoint, forced them to surrender their bank details and passcodes, and transferred money from their accounts.
The statement added that the officers falsely posed as operatives attached to Zone 16 Headquarters in Yenagoa to intimidate victims and avoid suspicion.
Police authorities further alleged that the syndicate abducted a victim along Aba Road and dispossessed him of more than N3.6 million and $4,000 from his cryptocurrency wallet.
Another victim was allegedly kidnapped and robbed of over N7.3 million in cash and valuables, while a third reportedly lost N1.5 million after being intercepted along NTA Road.
According to the statement, an orderly room trial found the officers culpable, leading to their dismissal from the force with immediate effect.
The police said a prima facie case involving conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, official corruption and extortion had been established against the dismissed officers.
The case file has reportedly been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, while formal charges are expected to be filed within 30 days.
The police authorities said the action reflects the force’s commitment to accountability, professionalism and the protection of citizens’ rights.
