The Anambra State Police Command has detained three police inspectors accused of extorting money from a civilian during a patrol in Awka. The officers are now facing internal disciplinary proceedings.
According to a statement released on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the incident occurred during a routine security patrol, where the officers allegedly stopped a member of the public, searched his phone without cause, and extorted money from him.
The State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the officers’ actions and ordered their immediate detention on June 11. He also directed the commencement of an orderly room trial—a disciplinary process within the police force.
During the interrogation, CP Orutugu expressed strong disapproval of the officers’ behavior, stressing that their conduct violated the principles of professionalism and accountability expected from the Nigeria Police Force.
He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to discipline, transparency, and public trust, warning that unprofessional conduct undermines efforts to build a credible and citizen-friendly police institution.
“Such behavior widens the trust gap between the police and the public,” the Commissioner stated.
