The Edo State Police Commissioner, CP Patrick Daaor, has launched a full-scale probe into a viral video of officers of the command allegedly extorting N1 million from members of the public.

Daaor, in a statement signed by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the viral video circulating on social media alleged that officers attached to Okpella Police Division arrested some young men, falsely accused them of cultism and allegedly extorted the sum of N1 million for their release.

He ordered that the allegations be thoroughly investigated to ascertain their culpability and that the officers allegedly involved in the extortion should report at the Command Headquarters.

According to him, the officers have since been identified and summoned to Benin City for appropriate disciplinary action.

The command also extended an invitation to the alleged victims to appear before it and give their accounts of the incident to the investigating team.

He warned that the command takes allegations of police misconduct, extortion and abuse of power seriously.

He added that any officer found culpable after investigation would be dealt with decisively and in accordance with the law, assuring the public that genuine complaints against police personnel would not be swept under the carpet.

He, however, encouraged citizens to report cases of unprofessional conduct, misconduct, harassment or extortion through the Complaint Response Unit (CRU) so that appropriate action could be taken.

He said the command remains committed to professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights and effective service to the people. (Daily Trust)