Ex-sergeants accused of extorting N1.7 million from victim while posing as anti-kidnapping squad
The Imo State Police Command has dismissed three of its operatives following their alleged involvement in kidnapping, armed robbery, and car snatching—crimes they were sworn to prevent.
Ex-Sergeants Gift Ekwueme and Ikechukwu Eto, along with ex-Corporal Divine Okwuaru, were found guilty after an orderly room trial and are currently detained at the state police headquarters awaiting arraignment in court.
How It Happened
According to police spokesperson DSP Henry Okoye, the trio, accompanied by a civilian driver identified as Alex Chukwu, allegedly kidnapped and extorted Mr. Obinna Egbu in Owerri on February 8, 2026.
Posing as operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit, the officers reportedly held Egbu at gunpoint and forcefully collected ₦1.7 million from him before releasing him.
"Yes, the incident happened, and after we received the complaint, the police swung into investigation," Okoye told PUNCH Online on Friday. "They were arrested, detained, faced an orderly room trial, and after they were found guilty, they were dismissed. The CP has ratified it. They are now ex-policemen."
Zero Tolerance Warning
The dismissal sends what the command described as "a strong signal" to all operatives that professional misconduct will not be tolerated. Newly posted Commissioner of Police Audu Garba Bosso has warned that any officer found engaging in corruption, high-handedness, or abuse of office will face the full weight of disciplinary procedures.
The development has reportedly sent shockwaves through the command, reinforcing the message that no officer is above the law—even when the crime is committed under the guise of law enforcement itself.
Posts
0 Comments