The disciplinary measures were announced on Thursday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Eno Nkereuwem Ikoedem, who said the action followed months of investigations into multiple complaints of harassment, unlawful arrest, abduction and extortion allegedly carried out by individuals posing as police officers along the Temboga axis off Aduwawa in Benin City.
According to SP Ikoedem, investigators found that members of the syndicate allegedly intercepted unsuspecting residents, forced them into commercial buses under the guise of legitimate police operations and compelled them to withdraw money through Point of Sale operators before releasing them.
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The police spokesperson said operatives of the State Intelligence Department arrested members of the alleged syndicate on 13 April 2026 after acting on credible intelligence.
Investigations indicated that the group comprised serving police officers, dismissed personnel, commercial bus drivers and civilian collaborators.
SP Ikoedem disclosed that more than 11 victims have positively identified members of the syndicate, while investigations remain ongoing as additional complainants continue to come forward.
Following internal disciplinary proceedings, Inspector Ehubariemen Wisdom, attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Benin City, was demoted to the rank of sergeant.
Five other officers, Corporal Mordi Philip, Corporal Destiny Emmanuel, Corporal Uwatse Emmanuel, Corporal Okon Elvis and Corporal Samuel David Obeten, were dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force over their alleged involvement in the case.
SP Ikoedem said the sanctions reflected the policy of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, who has repeatedly stated that “the era of impunity is over” within the Force.
She also warned Point of Sale operators and members of the public against assisting criminal activities, stressing that anyone found aiding extortion or laundering proceeds of crime would face prosecution.
Commending victims who reported the incidents, SP Ikoedem urged others with relevant information to cooperate with investigators to strengthen the ongoing prosecution of those involved.
“Let this serve as a clear warning to every police officer across the country. The Nigeria Police Force will no longer tolerate any abuse of office, corruption, extortion, or criminality within its ranks. Any officer who betrays the public trust will be identified, investigated, dismissed where appropriate, and prosecuted,” SP Ikoedem said.
The case marks one of the most significant internal disciplinary actions announced by the Edo State Police Command this year.
In recent months, the Nigeria Police Force has intensified efforts to tackle misconduct within its ranks as part of broader reforms aimed at improving accountability, professionalism and public confidence in policing.
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SP Ikoedem reaffirmed that officers who uphold the ethics and values of the Force would continue to be recognised, while those found engaging in criminal conduct would face decisive disciplinary and legal action.
Peculiar Adirika is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering news, business, and public affairs.
