Lagos CP Mandates Sacking of DPO Over Extortion Claims

The Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Idowu Owohunwa, has mandated the sacking of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Meiran Police Station following allegations of extortion.

The Incident:

His dismissal comes on the heels of a report filed by Engineer Ibrahim Saliu to the police.

Engineer Saliu recounted that on a fateful Saturday, he and his brother were unjustly targeted by officers from the Meiran Police Station. 

The officers, including the DPO, allegedly demanded receipts for the iPhones in their possession, threatening them with accusations of theft and potential jail time.

Saliu narrated, “The DPO took the iPhones, removed the warranty stickers, and labelled my brother and me as thieves and armed robbers. We were taken aback and began pleading for understanding.”

The Extortion:

The situation escalated when the officers demanded a hefty sum of N500,000 for their release. After negotiations, the amount was settled at N200,000, which was paid in cash as instructed by the officers.

Official Response:

In a tweet, Benjamin Hundeyin, the state Police Public Relations Officer, said, “CP Idowu Owohunwa has ordered the immediate removal of DPO Meiran for leadership dereliction and supervisory ineptitude.” 

He further revealed that all officers involved in the incident have been identified and are currently undergoing an orderly room trial at the Command headquarters.

FAQs:

What led to the sacking of the DPO at Meiran Police Station?

The DPO was sacked following allegations of extortion from Engineer Ibrahim Saliu and his brother.

How much were the victims allegedly extorted?

The officers initially demanded N500,000 but settled for N200,000, which was paid in cash.

What actions have been taken against the officers involved?

All officers implicated in the incident are currently at the Command headquarters undergoing an orderly room trial.

Who confirmed the incident and the actions taken?

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the incident and the subsequent actions via a tweet.