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Police dismiss officer accused of extorting $3,000 from residents

The Rivers Police Command has dismissed one Inspector Michael Odey for allegedly kidnapping and extorting 3,000 dollars from two persons in the state.

Popular rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu had raisd the alarm over a week ago while recounting how the police men obtained the money at gunpoint.

Spokesperson of the Rivers Police, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Port Harcourt.

She revealed that the files of two other officers, ASP Doubara Edonyabo and ASP Talent Mungo, who were allegedly involved in the incident, have been forwarded to the police headquarters for review.

The statement reads; “Insp. Odey’s dismissal was confirmed following the conclusion of Orderly Room proceedings and a review by Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Yenagoa, AIG Alifa Omata.

“AIG Omata upheld the recommendation for dismissal from the Force, and as such, Odey was relieved of his duty, effective Feb. 7, 2024.

“Similarly, Edonyabo and Mungo, have been queried and recommended for dismissal in compliance with established procedures”.

Iringe-Koko stated that the recommendation has been forwarded to the Secretary of the Nigeria Police Force for necessary action.

“The disciplinary process for Edonyabo and Mungo will involve review by the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission to ensure a fair resolution. The three officers remain in custody as investigations continue into two additional cases of a similar nature.

“The command encourages residents to report any misconduct by law enforcement agents promptly, as any officer involved in misconduct will be met with appropriate actions for fairness and justice,” she added.