Police authorities in Edo State have arrested several officers alongside a Point of Sale (POS) operator over their alleged involvement in kidnapping and extortion activities within the state.
According to preliminary reports, the suspects who include serving police personnel were apprehended following complaints from victims who accused them of orchestrating unlawful arrests and demanding ransom payments under the guise of official duties.
The POS operator was reportedly used to facilitate the collection and transfer of the illicit funds.
Sources revealed that the operation came to light after a victim raised alarm over being detained and forced to part with a substantial amount of money to secure release.
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The case was subsequently escalated, prompting an internal investigation by the police command in Edo State.
During the investigation, authorities uncovered evidence allegedly linking the officers to a pattern of similar incidents, where unsuspecting individuals were targeted, abducted, and extorted.
The involvement of the POS operator is believed to have helped the suspects avoid direct traceability by channeling transactions through third-party accounts.
The state Police Public Relations Officer confirmed the arrests, noting that the command is committed to upholding professionalism and rooting out corruption within its ranks.
He added that the suspects are currently in custody and will face disciplinary procedures as well as possible criminal prosecution if found guilty.
The police command reassured residents of Edo State of their safety, urging the public to report any suspicious activities or misconduct by officers. Authorities emphasized that such actions do not reflect the values of the force and vowed that justice would be served.
Investigations into the matter are ongoing, with officials indicating that more arrests could follow as efforts continue to dismantle the network behind the alleged crimes.
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