Anambra Police Commissioner orders investigation into officers accused of extorting resident in viral video

The Anambra State Police Command has responded to a viral video showing officers allegedly harassing and extorting a man in Onitsha, Anambra State.

According to the victim’s wife, the incident occurred after the officers stopped her husband and demanded to see his vehicle documents. Although he reportedly provided all the required papers, she claimed the officers handcuffed him, accused him of being a thief, and took him away.

She further alleged that the officers demanded ₦500,000 from him. Fearing for his safety and unsure whether they were genuine police officers or kidnappers, the man reportedly agreed to pay ₦200,000. The officers then took him to a Point-of-Sale (POS) operator where the money was withdrawn.

In a statement issued on Monday, March 16, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command had begun investigating the matter and assured the public that any officer found guilty would face disciplinary action.

Ikenga explained that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Okpoko had already received the complaint and immediately began efforts to identify the officers allegedly involved.

He added that the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has instructed the DPO to present the officers linked to the incident for investigation and possible disciplinary measures in line with the regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.

The statement also revealed preliminary findings from the ongoing probe. According to the police, the DPO had earlier assigned officers to trace the personnel accused in the video.

It was also disclosed that the money allegedly collected from the victim has been returned, a development the command described as a strong indication of misconduct and unprofessional behaviour by the officers.

The police further noted that the involvement of the POS operator in the transaction raises suspicion of possible collaboration in the incident.

The command reiterated that it will not protect any officer found culpable, assuring that appropriate disciplinary steps will be taken in accordance with established procedures.

The Anambra State Police Command also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, adding that the public will be updated as the investigation progresses.