Police Arrest Imo JTF Personnel Filmed Harassing And Extorting Motorists [Video]

Imo State Police Command has arrested several security officers deployed at Seven and Half Junction in Obowo Local Government Area following accusations of harassing and extorting motorists.

The arrest was confirmed on Saturday by the state police spokesperson, Henry Okoye, after a video showing the alleged misconduct spread widely on social media.

“Update on Viral Video Involving JTF Personnel in Obowo. The personnel involved in the Joint Security Patrol at Obowo, as seen in the viral video, have all been arrested and are currently in detention.

“Upon the conclusion of the ongoing investigation, each personnel will be released to their respective security agencies for appropriate disciplinary action,” Okoye said.

The video shows uniformed personnel stopping travellers, going through their mobile phones, and checking banking applications while demanding money.

This practice has previously been described as illegal and unacceptable by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

Officers from the Army, Police, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were captured in the footage at both Seven and Half Junction and Amanze Junction in Obowo.

In one vide, a police officer inside a patrol vehicle was seen scrolling through the phones of several young men and opening their banking apps.

Another scene showed an operative in a Hilux vehicle taking a traveller’s laptop during a document check.

In a different moment, an officer was heard asking a colleague to confirm whether money had been collected from a motorist.

The footage has triggered strong reactions online, with many Nigerians condemning the actions of the officers involved.

Okoye said investigations are still ongoing and assured the public that appropriate disciplinary action would be taken against all those found culpable.

Watch the video below:

KanyiDaily also reported how 19-year-old housemaid was arrested for allegedly stealing foreign currencies and other personal belongings from Delta commissioner’s home.