Viral Video: Imo Police Arrest Inspector, Two Civil Guard Personnel Over Alleged Extortion

Virgin Times News

The Imo State Police Command has arrested a police inspector and two personnel of the State Civil Guard Corps following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing them harassing and extorting a motorist in Owerri. The incident, reportedly recorded on Thursday, October 8, has prompted an internal investigation, with the command condemning the conduct depicted in the footage and promising appropriate disciplinary action if wrongdoing is established. The arrested personnel were identified as Inspector Chinewe Ejiogu, attached to the Shell Camp Divisional Police Headquarters, and two State Civil Guard Corps officers, Kelechi Nzediagwu and Onyedikachi Chibuike. According to the police, all three are being detained at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) while the case is investigated.

Commissioner Orders Investigation

The Police Public Relations Officer in Imo State, Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Friday. He said the Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, had directed the command’s Complaint Response Unit to investigate the incident and establish the circumstances surrounding the allegations. The affected motorist has also been urged to report to the unit and provide relevant information that could assist investigators. The command said disciplinary measures would follow the conclusion of the investigation.

Police Condemn Alleged Abuse of Office

In its reaction, the police command described the conduct captured in the video as unacceptable and inconsistent with the discipline and integrity expected of law enforcement personnel. The command stressed that an alleged traffic violation does not justify extortion, harassment or abuse of official authority. It also warned personnel to perform their duties within the law and treat members of the public with respect. The police urged residents to report suspected misconduct through the appropriate channels, assuring the public that complaints against officers would be taken seriously

Viral Footage Puts Security Accountability in Focus

The incident has renewed attention on the responsibility of security personnel to enforce traffic regulations lawfully and professionally. While law enforcement officers have a duty to enforce applicable regulations, allegations of demanding money unlawfully or intimidating motorists require proper investigation and accountability. The police investigation is expected to establish what happened during the encounter and determine whether any disciplinary or legal action is warranted. The arrest of the three personnel does not, by itself, establish guilt. Their alleged conduct remains subject to the outcome of the investigation.

What Happens Next?

The command has not announced the final findings of its investigation or disclosed whether formal charges have been filed. For now, the three operatives remain in custody as investigators seek further information from the affected motorist and examine the circumstances captured in the video. Virgin Times News will provide updates as verified details emerge. Stay Informed. Stay Ahead.