…viral social media video in which a victim accused uniformed officers of abducting him.
BENIN CITY, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | The Edo State Police Command has arrested a serving police officer and three civilian accomplices for allegedly terrorising residents of Benin through acts of extortion, harassment, and armed robbery, prompting renewed calls for accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.
The arrest followed a viral social media video in which a victim accused uniformed officers of abducting him, seizing his phone and personal belongings, and subjecting him to severe intimidation.
Reacting swiftly to the public outrage, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered a full investigation and manhunt for the culprits, leading to a breakthrough on August 15, 2025.
“Operatives of the Ugbowo Surveillance Team successfully intercepted the suspects in a silver Toyota Yaris, along with other incriminating items,” said Command Spokesperson Moses Yamu, in a statement issued on Sunday in Benin City.
The police inspector, whose name has not yet been disclosed, was arrested alongside three civilians. They are all alleged to have been operating as a criminal syndicate while posing as law enforcement.
Commissioner Agbonika described the incident as both “shameful and criminal,” promising that the culprits will face the full weight of the law.
“The command has zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of office, or misconduct within the Force,” he declared.
“There will be no hiding place for rogue elements within the police. Any officer caught engaging in extortion, brutality, or corruption will be dismissed, arrested, and prosecuted.”
The CP’s firm stance comes as part of an intensified effort to clean up the force’s image, particularly in Edo State, where residents have repeatedly raised concerns about abuses of power.
Yamu called on the public especially the victim seen in the viral video to come forward with credible evidence to aid the ongoing investigation and help ensure justice is served.
“We reaffirm our commitment to protecting lives and property, restoring public confidence, and upholding the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force,” the statement read.
The case has drawn widespread attention on social media, with many Nigerians demanding deeper reforms to purge the police of rogue officers exploiting their uniforms to commit crimes.
The arrested inspector and his civilian accomplices are expected to face charges in court upon the conclusion of investigations.
