- Following this complaint, suspects linked to the crime were arrested for questioning
The Abia State Police Command has responded to an online allegation by a social media blogger accusing a police officer in Aba of extorting N100,000 each from 10 suspects arrested on October 4, 2024.
In a statement on Tuesday, the command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Maureen Chinaka, addressed the issue on behalf of the Commissioner of Police.
According to ASP Chinaka, the investigation began after the Aba Area Command received a written complaint from the management of Life Stock Feed PLC Aba on October 3, alleging that several staff members had misappropriated company funds and stolen production materials.
Following this complaint, suspects linked to the crime were arrested for questioning. The viral post’s complainant, Mr. Samuel Okoye, reportedly tried to secure bail for three suspects but was denied as the investigation was ongoing. Infuriated, Mr. Okoye allegedly threatened to “deal with” the Investigating Police Officer (IPO).
The police stated that Mr. Okoye has since been invited to clarify his allegations but has refused, citing anger as the reason behind his claims and deciding to drop the matter.
ASP Chinaka reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism and warned against defamatory posts that could damage the police’s image, adding that such posts would face appropriate legal action.
She advised the public to verify information before making any defamatory statements against the force.