Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled an alleged criminal syndicate comprising serving and dismissed police officers, commercial bus drivers, and civilian accomplices accused of abducting and extorting members of the public.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the group allegedly operated around the Teboga axis off Aduwawa, Benin City, where victims were reportedly intercepted, forced into commercial vehicles, and driven around the city before being coerced into withdrawing money through Point-of-Sale (POS) operators.
The suspects were arrested on April 13, 2026, following an intelligence-led investigation carried out by the State Intelligence Department.
Police say more than 11 victims have positively identified members of the syndicate, with investigations still ongoing.
One police inspector, Ehubariemen Wisdom, was reduced in rank from Inspector to Sergeant, while five other officers were dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force and are to face prosecution over their alleged involvement.
Another officer, Inspector Enahoro Nicholas, is currently at large and has been declared a deserter.
The Police Command has warned officers against abusing their uniforms and members of the public, particularly POS operators, against facilitating criminal activities.
