By Princely Onyenwe | News Desk
BENIN CITY, Edo State — The Edo State Police Command has dismissed five serving police officers and demoted another after they were found culpable in alleged criminal activities involving the abduction and extortion of unsuspecting residents in Benin City.
The disciplinary action, announced on Monday, followed an internal investigation into allegations that the officers used commercial buses to pick up unsuspecting members of the public, intimidate them while driving around parts of the Edo State capital, and force them to transfer money through Point-of-Sale (POS) transactions.
The dismissed officers were identified as Corporals Mordi Philip, Destiny Emmanuel, Uwatse Emmanuel, Okon Elvis, and Samuel David Obeten.
In addition, Inspector Ehubariemen Wisdom was reduced in rank from Inspector to Sergeant over his alleged involvement in the operation.
According to available information, the officers allegedly carried out the illegal activities while on duty, targeting residents who were unlawfully detained inside commercial vehicles before being coerced into making financial transfers.
The Edo State Police Command said the sanctions reflect its commitment to professionalism, discipline, and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force. The command stressed that officers found engaging in misconduct or criminal behaviour would face the full weight of disciplinary procedures and applicable laws.
The development has been welcomed by many residents and civil society observers, who described the disciplinary action as a positive step toward restoring public confidence in policing and discouraging abuse of office.
The police also encouraged members of the public to continue reporting cases of misconduct by security personnel, assuring that verified complaints would be investigated thoroughly and appropriate sanctions imposed where necessary.
The dismissed officers are expected to face any further legal processes arising from the allegations where applicable.
