The Imo State Police have arrested a traffic warden and two members of the State Civil Guard Corps. They are facing accusations of harassing and extorting a motorist in Owerri.
A video showing the operatives allegedly demanding money from a driver for not having a driver’s licence went viral. The video was recorded by someone in the car.
Henry Okoye, the Police Public Relations Officer in Imo, said the three individuals have been identified and taken into custody.
The arrested are Inspector Chinewe Ejiogu from the Shell Camp Divisional Police Headquarters, and two State Civil Guard Corps members, Kelechi Nzediagwu and Onyedikachi Chibuike. They are now held at the State Criminal Investigation Department.
The police condemned their actions, calling them unacceptable. They said such behavior goes against the standards expected from law enforcement officers.
Commissioner of Police, Audu Bosso, has ordered the command’s Complaint Response Unit to investigate the matter.
The police have asked the affected motorist to go to the unit and share any information that could help the investigation. They promised that proper disciplinary action will be taken after the investigation.
Henry Okoye provided these details in a statement.
Okoye said, “The Imo State Police Command is aware of a viral video showing a police traffic warden and two State Civil Guard Corps members harassing a motorist for allegedly driving without a driver’s licence in Owerri on October 8.”
“The Command strongly condemns the conduct in the video, calling it unacceptable and against the discipline and integrity expected from law enforcement personnel.”
“The police officer involved is Inspector Chinewe Ejiogu from the Shell Camp Divisional Police Headquarters, while the two State Civil Guard Corps members are Kelechi Nzediagwu and Onyedikachi Chibuike. They are currently held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
“Following this, Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has instructed the Command’s Complaint Response Unit to look into the matter. The affected motorist should report to the unit and provide relevant information to aid the investigation. Proper disciplinary action will follow after the investigation.”
“The Command emphasizes that no traffic violation justifies extortion or harassment. All personnel are reminded to carry out their duties according to the law and treat the public with respect.”
“The Command encourages the public to report any police misconduct through the proper channels and assures them that all allegations will be taken seriously.
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