Seven police officers have been arrested in Imo State following allegations of extortion, harassment, and other unprofessional conduct during a statewide checkpoint inspection ordered by the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma.
The officers were apprehended after being identified for various infractions while on field duties.
Their arrest comes amid efforts by the Imo State Police Command tosanitise its operations and restore public trust in law enforcement.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Okoye Henry, the police confirmed the arrests and stated that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated in line with established police procedures.
The statement read, “In a renewed effort to entrench professionalism, discipline, and public confidence in police operations, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Aboki Danjuma, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, embarked on an operational tour of police checkpoints across the state including those along the Owerri–Onitsha, Owerri – Port Harcourt, and Owerri–Umuahia highways.
“The inspection followed reports and complaints from members of the public concerning alleged acts of extortion, harassment, and other forms of unprofessional conduct by some police personnel on field duties.”
Okoye explained that during the tour, CP Danjuma addressed officers at various duty posts, reiterating the core values of modern policing — discipline, integrity, and respect for human rights.
However, he issued a stern warning that any officer found engaging in extortion, intimidation, or misconduct will face strict disciplinary action, including dismissal and possible prosecution.
“Following the inspection, seven (7) personnel were identified and arrested for various infractions. Appropriate disciplinary measures have been initiated in line with established procedures, and further updates will be communicated in due course.
“In an open and reassuring engagement, the CP also interacted with several motorists and commuters, urging them not to give money to any police officer on duty or surrender their mobile phones for unauthorised search.
He emphasised that such acts are unlawful, unethical, and will not be tolerated.
“To strengthen accountability and promote public confidence, CP Danjuma personally distributed the emergency contact numbers of the Command’s X-Squad and Complaint Response Unit (CRU), encouraging the public to report any misconduct through these channels. He assured that all reports will be treated promptly, professionally, and with full confidentiality,” Okoye said.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner reaffirmed that the Imo State Police Command under his leadership remains committed to restoring public trust and building a police force anchored on integrity, justice and service to the people.