The Edo State Police Command has uncovered and dismantled a criminal syndicate involving a serving police officer and civilians engaged in acts of extortion, brutality, and robbery against innocent citizens in Benin City.
The spokesperson of the command, CSP Moses Yamu, who disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, August 17, 2025 said the arrest follows a viral video in which a victim alleged that he was abducted by policemen, his phone and belongings forcefully taken, and subjected to intimidation.
In the video, the victim, who appeared visibly shaken with his wife beside him in tears, alleged that he was kidnapped, brutalised, and extorted by five armed officers.
According to him, he boarded a commercial vehicle after work at about 8 pm on that fateful day when he was stopped by the officers around Sapele Road, close to Adesuwa Junction, Benin City.
The suspects forced him into their patrol vehicle after they spotted his wife’s picture on his phone profile and confirmed she was American.
“They asked me who was in my profile picture. I told them it was my wife. They asked if she was American, and I said yes. Immediately, they handcuffed me. My hand is still numb till now,” he said.
The PPRO said the serving police Inspector identified as Ojo Oloruntobi was arrested alongside three civilian accomplices.
“Acting on this complaint and other related reports, the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, directed that the perpetrators be identified and arrested without delay,” the statement read.
“On 15th August 2025, operatives of the Ugbowo Surveillance Team successfully intercepted the suspects with a silver Colored Toyota Yaris and other incriminating items.
“A serving Police Inspector later identified as Ojo Oloruntobi was arrested alongside three civilian accomplices namely Charles Onah, Joseph Ohis and Enoma Agho, who had been collaborating with him to terrorise residents of the city through acts of extortion and harassment.
“The Edo State Police Command strongly condemns this shameful and criminal conduct. The arrested officer and his collaborators will face the full wrath of the law. CP Monday Agbonika has made it clear that there will be no hiding place for rogue elements within the Force, reiterating the Command’s zero tolerance for corruption, abuse of office, and unprofessional conduct.
“The Command further issues a stern warning to all officers: any policeman found engaging in misconduct, extortion, brutality, or any form of corrupt practice will be swiftly dismissed, arrested, and prosecuted in line with the laws of the land.
“The Command calls on members of the public—particularly the victim in the viral video—to come forward and assist investigators with credible information to ensure justice is served.
“The Edo State Police Command remains unwavering in its duty to protect lives and property, restore public trust, and uphold the integrity of the Nigeria Police Force.”
