Rivers Police Dismiss Five Inspectors Over Alleged Kidnapping, Armed Robbery and Extortion Ring

A major internal crackdown has rocked the Rivers State Police Command after five police inspectors were dismissed over allegations of running a coordinated criminal network involving kidnapping, armed robbery and large-scale extortion across the state.

The dismissed officers were allegedly part of a syndicate that preyed on unsuspecting residents between September 2025 and January 2026, using their uniforms and authority as cover for violent crimes and financial theft.

Police authorities identified the officers as Inspectors John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu and Anele Ikechukwu. Their dismissal followed internal disciplinary proceedings after months of investigation triggered by multiple petitions from victims.

Investigators say the group operated with a disturbing level of organisation, reportedly using minibuses to carry out illegal stop-and-search operations. Victims were allegedly intercepted at gunpoint and forced to surrender sensitive banking information.

Funds were then reportedly drained directly from victims’ accounts after they were compelled to disclose passcodes and personal financial details under intimidation.

The case came to light after a petition submitted by the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation, which acted on behalf of several victims who reported similar experiences involving armed operatives posing as legitimate officers.

Further revelations linked the group to violent abductions. One victim was allegedly kidnapped along Aba Road and dispossessed of more than ₦3.6 million alongside $4,000 taken from a cryptocurrency wallet. Another case involved the alleged abduction of a victim who lost over ₦7.3 million in cash and valuables.

A third victim reportedly lost ₦1.5 million after being intercepted along NTA Road under similar circumstances.

Police authorities also alleged that the officers impersonated operatives of the Zone 16 Headquarters in Yenagoa to intimidate victims and avoid detection during their operations.

Following their arrest, an orderly room trial found the inspectors culpable. The disciplinary panel subsequently ordered their dismissal with immediate effect.

Authorities further confirmed that a prima facie case of conspiracy, kidnapping, armed robbery, extortion and official corruption has been established against the dismissed officers.

The case file has now been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, with formal charges expected to be filed within 30 days as prosecution preparations continue.

Police leadership in the state says the development underscores renewed efforts to enforce accountability within the force and restore public confidence in law enforcement institutions.