Police suspend DPO over alleged N500,000 extortion

A Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Rivers State has been suspended by the police command amid allegations of extortion and misconduct. The command's spokesperson, Blessing Agabe, confirmed the action on Monday in Port Harcourt.

Reports circulating on social media claim the officer accepted N500,000 from an individual to secure their release from detention. Evidence cited includes a payment receipt showing the money was transferred to an Opay account allegedly belonging to the DPO. Further allegations suggest the officer arrested a mother of two after she reported her husband for assault and injury.

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In response to the allegations and in line with the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, the officer has been removed from office pending a thorough and impartial investigation.

Assistant Superintendent of Police Agabe stated that the Commissioner of Police for Rivers State, Olugbenga Adepoju, has initiated a comprehensive investigation into these claims. The officer has been removed from his post pending the investigation's outcome.

"In response to the allegations and in line with the command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, the officer has been removed from office pending a thorough and impartial investigation," Agabe said. The commissioner expressed concern over the allegations and reiterated the command's firm stance against misconduct, vowing that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action. Residents are encouraged to report any alleged misconduct through appropriate channels.

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Adepoju has assured residents that the investigation will be conducted diligently, professionally and without bias.