IMO Police command moves to end alleged extortion of motorists along Owerri-Umuahia road
Joseph Irikefe
The Imo State Police Command has disclosed that issues raised by the Concerned Citizens of Mbaise about extortion and unprofessional conduct on Owerri–Umuahia road by security operatives, have been peacefully resolved.
This the Command disclosed in a statement was the highpoint of a peaceful meeting by stakeholders from Mbaise and the State Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, on Tuesday, 5th August 2025, at the Command Headquarters, where it was disclosed that a constructive and result-oriented engagement was held.
According to the statement, the meeting was attended by key stakeholders including PCRC Chairman Evangelist Dr. Bethran Uzodinma, Mr. Chiman Chukwuyere (rep. of National PCRC Chairman), Major J.A. David (rep. 34 Artillery Brigade Commander), ACs SID and X-Squad, Area Commanders of Mbaise/Ngor Okpala and Owerri, all DPOs in the Mbaise axis, Commanders of RRS and Search and Flush Unit, and the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO).
It noted that the group, led by Comrade Wisdom Anyanwu and Mr. Kennedy Onwunali, presented complaints of harassment and extortion by certain operatives of the Joint Task Force (JTF).
“In response, the Commissioner of Police expressed regret over the incidents, accepted responsibility for lapses in supervision, and firmly condemned the misconduct. He assured the group that decisive action has been taken to address their concerns and commended them for choosing dialogue over protest.”
To prevent recurrence, the Command will enhance supervision in collaboration with other security agencies, scale up public engagement, and take disciplinary action where necessary, the statement said.
It added that the CP also welcomed the group’s proposal for public awareness campaigns and encouraged continued collaboration.
The affirmed that group, in turn, agreed to suspend the planned protest and monitor the Command’s progress.
The statement signed by the Police Public Relations Office, DSP Henry Okoye, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, further stated that the Imo State Police Command remains steadfast in its commitment to professionalism and accountability. This is as it encouraged citizens to report any cases of extortion, misconduct, or harassment via the CRU/X-Squad hotlines at 08148024755, 0813 478 3532, 08033424051. Together, we can enhance the quality of police service delivery in Imo State.