Rivers Police Dismiss Five Officers Over Alleged Kidnapping Crimes
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
RIVERS, Nigeria – The Rivers State Police Command dismisses five inspectors accused of robbery, kidnapping, extortion and conspiracy following investigations into alleged criminal activities across the state.
Police authorities confirm the dismissal on Friday in Port Harcourt through a statement issued by command spokesperson ASP Blessing Agabe on behalf of Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid.
The dismissed officers — John Okoi, Eyibo Asuquo, Udo Ndipmong, Bright Nwachukwu and Anele Ikechukwu — are accused of carrying out criminal operations between September 2025 and January 2026.
According to police authorities, investigations begin after the Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation submits petitions on behalf of alleged victims.
Investigators reportedly discover that the officers operated with minibuses and mounted illegal stop-and-search operations while allegedly threatening victims with firearms.
Police say the suspects forced victims to disclose banking details and passcodes before withdrawing money from their accounts.
Authorities further allege that the officers impersonated operatives from Zone 16 Headquarters in Yenagoa to intimidate residents and avoid suspicion.
One victim allegedly loses more than ₦3.6 million and 4,000 dollars from his cryptocurrency wallet after being abducted along Aba Road.
Another victim reportedly loses over ₦7.3 million in cash and valuables, while a third person allegedly loses ₦1.5 million after interception near NTA Road.
“The officers were found guilty of misconduct during orderly room proceedings and have been dismissed with immediate effect,” the statement says.
Police authorities add that preliminary investigations establish cases of conspiracy, armed robbery, kidnapping, corruption and extortion against the former officers.
The command says the case file has been forwarded to the Director of Public Prosecutions, with formal charges expected within 30 days.
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