Edo Police dismantle extortion syndicate, officers to face prosecution

BENIN CITY, Nigeria, 13 April 2026 (NPA) — The Edo State Police Command has announced a major breakthrough in its fight against criminal elements posing as law enforcement officers in Benin City and surrounding areas.

According to a statement signed by ASP Eno Ikoedem, Police Public Relations Officer, the Command uncovered a well-organized syndicate responsible for harassment, abduction, and extortion of citizens. Victims reported being unlawfully stopped along the Teboga axis off Aduwawa, forcibly conveyed around the city, and taken to Point of Sale (POS) operators to withdraw money under duress.

Commissioner of Police CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, ordered a discreet, intelligence-driven investigation that led to the arrest of several suspects, including serving and dismissed police personnel. Those arrested include:

• Goodluck Jaja (POS Operator)
• ASP Bonny Paul Onajite
• Inspector Ehubarieme Wisdom
• Inspector Arebame God’s Power
• Corporal Mordi Philip
• Destiny Emmanuel (Dismissed Police Corporal)
• Corporal Okon Elvis
• Samuel Nicholas (Mini Bus Driver)
• Etim Bright (Mini Bus Driver)

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects exploited police uniforms and accoutrements to deceive victims, tarnishing the image of the Nigeria Police Force. Serving officers are undergoing internal disciplinary procedures, including orderly room trials, and will be arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.

The Command urged victims of the syndicate to come forward with information to aid prosecution. It also warned POS operators and merchants against colluding with individuals, including those in uniform, in unlawful transactions.

Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the Command stressed that no individual is above the law. CP Agbonika assured residents that the operation aligns with the mandate of Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc(+), NPM, to restore public confidence and sanitize the system.