The Rivers State Police Command has taken decisive action in response to an incident of extortion involving its personnel.
Inspector Michael Odey, implicated in the act, has been formally dismissed, while two other operatives, both Assistant Superintendents of Police (ASPs), have been issued queries and recommended for dismissal in accordance with established procedures.
The alleged misconduct occurred in December 2023 when the three operatives, including the two ASPs, were apprehended and detained on charges of kidnapping and extorting $3,000 from two unidentified travelers.
This prompted swift action from the police command to address the breach of professional conduct.
Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the state police command, confirmed the dismissal of Inspector Odey and the recommendation for the dismissal of the two ASPs in a statement released in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
Iringe-Koko clarified that Inspector Odey’s dismissal followed the completion of an orderly room trial conducted by the command.
Regarding the ASPs, while their dismissal is recommended, their ranks have been forwarded to the office of the Inspector General of Police.
This procedural step ensures a fair and impartial trial as the matter progresses through the higher echelons of the police hierarchy.
The actions taken by the Rivers State Police Command underscore their commitment to maintaining the integrity of the force and holding personnel accountable for any misconduct.