The Rivers State Police Command has disclosed the termination of employment of Inspector Michael Odey due to his implication in a case of extortion amounting to $3,000.
Odey, along with two Assistant Superintendents of Police, Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo, faced allegations of abducting and extorting two individuals.
Subsequently, the trio transported their unsuspecting victims across three states before seizing the aforementioned sum, equivalent to N4.2 million.
Nevertheless, the state police command, represented by spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the retrieval of the money, which has since been returned to its rightful owners.
In a statement issued on Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the state capital, Iringe-Koko disclosed Odey’s dismissal from the police force following the conclusion of orderly room proceedings.
Furthermore, she indicated that the dismissal of the two ASPs has been recommended, pending review by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Police Service Commission, to ensure a “fair and equitable resolution.”
The statement titled, ‘Update: Rivers State Police Command addresses extortion case involving three police officers.’ read, “The Rivers State Police Command is issuing an update regarding an ongoing investigation into an extortion incident involving three police officers. As part of our commitment to transparency and accountability, we are providing the following information:
“After a thorough investigation, two officers have been officially queried and recommended for dismissal as per established procedures.
“This recommendation has been swiftly forwarded to the Force Secretary for necessary action. Inspector Michael Odey’s case has progressed with the conclusion of orderly room proceedings.
“The findings have been reviewed by AIG Alifa Omata, the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 16, Yenagoa, who has upheld the recommendation of dismissal from the Force and has been relieved of his duty, effective February 7, 2024.”
The spokesperson added that “it is important to note that all three officers remain in custody as investigations continue into two additional cases of similar nature. Updates on these investigations will be provided in due course.
“The disciplinary process for Assistant Superintendents of Police Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo involves review by the Inspector General of Police and the Police Service Commission, ensuring a fair and just resolution.
“The Rivers State Police Command encourages residents to promptly report any misconduct by law enforcement agents. Be rest assured, all reports will be handled with the utmost seriousness, and appropriate actions will be taken to uphold fairness and justice.”