April 13, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
The Edo State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled a dangerous criminal syndicate involving serving and former police officers who allegedly abducted residents and forced them to withdraw money through Point of Sale (POS) operators.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, five serving officers have been dismissed and arrested alongside five other accomplices linked to the operation.
The crackdown follows widespread public outrage over reports of individuals dressed in police uniforms using official equipment to harass, abduct, and extort unsuspecting citizens across Benin City.
Investigations revealed that the syndicate consisted of serving personnel, dismissed officers, POS operators, and civilian drivers who worked together to target victims. Those implicated include Goodluck Jaja, ASP Bonny Onajite, Inspector Ehubarieme Wisdom, Inspector Arebame God’s Power, Corporal Mordi Philip, Destiny Emmanuel, Corporal Okon Elvis, Samuel Nicholas, and Etim Bright.
The group reportedly operated around the Teboga axis off Aduwawa, where they intercepted residents, forced them into vehicles, and drove them around before taking them to POS locations to withdraw cash under duress.
Police authorities disclosed that the operation was uncovered after multiple complaints from the public. Acting on these reports, the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, ordered a discreet intelligence-led investigation, which ultimately led to the syndicate’s arrest.
Preliminary findings indicate that the suspects carried out several cases of abduction and extortion, exploiting their perceived authority as law enforcement officers to avoid suspicion.
“The suspects formed a well-organised criminal network, bringing the image of the Nigeria Police Force into disrepute,” the statement noted.
The Command confirmed that all implicated officers have been dismissed and will face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
Authorities have also called on victims to come forward with useful information to support the case, while warning POS operators against participating in illegal transactions.
Reaffirming its commitment to accountability, the police said the action aligns with directives from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to cleanse the force and restore public confidence.
The Command stressed that no individual, regardless of rank or status, will be shielded from justice.
