Delta Man Accuses Policemen of Brutality, Extortion, and Sexual Assault at Checkpoint

A man identified as Michael Atayegbare has accused some policemen in Delta State of brutality, extortion, and sexual assault during a disturbing encounter at a checkpoint in the Musogah community.

Atayegbare, who was traveling with family members for his younger sister’s introduction ceremony, alleged that the officers stopped their commercial vehicle, ordered passengers to disembark, and insisted on seizing his phone. He refused, arguing that the police had no legal right to access his device.

According to him, the situation quickly escalated. One officer allegedly slapped him near the eye, while others beat him with batons and guns, accusing him of being a drug addict without evidence. He claimed that a policeman even attempted to shoot him, grazing his new shoes after firing into the air.

Atayegbare further alleged that while being dragged into a police vehicle, an officer grabbed his private parts, another bit his hand, and his phone along with his in-law’s phone were forcefully taken. Videos of the incident, recorded by passengers, were allegedly deleted at the station on the orders of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO).

He said the officers forced him to write an incriminating statement, barred him from mentioning the beatings or deleted videos, and extorted ₦180,000 from him before he was released.

The victim, who sustained injuries to his eye, wrist, and leg, described the ordeal as humiliating and traumatic, calling for justice and accountability.

Efforts to reach police authorities for a response were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

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