Imo State Police Clamp Down on Rogue Officers: Seven Arrested for Extortion and Harassment at Checkpoints
In a decisive effort to combat police misconduct and restore public trust, the Imo State Police Command has arrested seven officers accused of engaging in extortion, harassment, and other unethical behaviour while on duty.
The arrests were made during an unannounced inspection tour across major highways in the state including the Owerri–Onitsha, Owerri–Port Harcourt, and Owerri–Umuahia roads conducted on June 17, 2025, by the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma. The operation followed widespread complaints from citizens concerning the abusive conduct of officers at police checkpoints.
According to a press release issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, the officers were identified during the inspection and immediately taken into custody for violating police ethics and professional standards.
“In line with the command’s renewed drive to enforce discipline and re-establish public confidence, CP Aboki Danjuma undertook a surprise field assessment of checkpoints following reports of extortion and intimidation,” the statement read.
During the tour, CP Danjuma personally addressed officers stationed at various checkpoints, reaffirming the core values of modern policing: integrity, respect for human rights, and service to the community. He issued a strong warning that any personnel caught engaging in corrupt practices, unlawful searches, or abuse of power would face strict disciplinary actions — including dismissal from service and possible prosecution.
Following the inspection, seven officers were arrested for various infractions. Disciplinary proceedings have already begun in accordance with the Nigeria Police Force’s internal regulations.
In an effort to promote accountability and encourage public engagement, CP Danjuma also interacted with motorists and commuters, advising them not to succumb to illegal demands or surrender their phones for unauthorized searches.
“He emphasized that such behaviour from officers is not only unethical but also illegal, and the command will not tolerate it,” DSP Okoye stated.
The Commissioner went further to distribute official emergency contact numbers for the Police Command’s X-Squad and Complaint Response Unit (CRU), urging members of the public to report any misconduct directly to these channels. He assured that all reports would be treated swiftly, professionally, and confidentially.
CP Danjuma reaffirmed the commitment of the Imo State Police Command to reforming law enforcement practices, upholding justice, and building a force that the public can trust and respect.
