By CHARLES IWUOHA

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested one Mr. Justice Ozobi and his accomplice over allegations made against the Commissioner of Police, concerning the alleged collection of N700,000 each from six different families for the release of their sons.

The Command had earlier categorically refuted the allegations as false and misleading. This was contained in a statement issued on Friday by the command's Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu and made available to Journalists in Abakaliki.

The statement stated that in a post, the suspect used a photograph of a former Commissioner of Police, Ebonyi State Command, thereby subjecting the retired senior police officer to unwarranted public ridicule and embarrassment.

The suspect according to the police, was arrested in Anambra State and has since been brought to the Ebonyi State Command for investigation. The command said will provide further updates as the investigation progresses.

The Command reiterates that citizens have the right to express their views, raise genuine concerns, and make constructive observations aimed at improving policing within the state.

However, while the Command respects the right to freedom of expression, it will not tolerate the deliberate dissemination of false, malicious or defamatory information calculated to tarnish the image of the Command and the Force at large.

"The Command remains committed to accountability and will continue to hold its officers to the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and ethical conduct.

“Members of the public are therefore encouraged to verify information before disseminating it and to channel genuine complaints through appropriate authorities for prompt and impartial investigation.”