Police dismiss inspector for ‘extorting $3,000’ from two travellers

The Rivers police command says Michael Odey, an inspector, has been dismissed over alleged involvement in a $3,000 extortion case.

BACKGROUND

In January, three police officers were arrested over the abduction and extortion of two travellers.

The travellers were allegedly kidnapped by the police officers while driving along the Aba-Owerri road in Abia state.

The officers involved are Odey and two assistant superintendents of police — Doubara Edonyabo and Talent Mungo.

The three police officers, who claimed to be operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) threatened to take the victims to Lagos zonal command.

The victims were said to have been taken to Delta, Bayelsa and Rivers states by the police officers while accusing them of committing fraud.

The police officers allegedly extorted $3,000 from the two travellers.

The victims reported the case to police authorities after which the three officers were arrested.

TheCable understands that the money was recovered from them and handed over to the victims.

THE DISMISSAL

In a statement on Wednesday, Grace Iringe-Koko, the Rivers police spokesperson, said Edonyabo and Mungo have been queried and recommended for dismissal.

Iringe-Koko said the disciplinary process for the two ASPs involves the inspector-general of police (IGP) and the Police Service Commission (PSC).

“Inspector Michael Odey’s case has progressed with the conclusion of orderly room proceedings,” the Rivers police spokesperson said.

“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 7th February 2024.

“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.”