The Imo State Police Command has detained a police traffic warden and two personnel of the State Civil Guard Corps over alleged harassment and extortion of a motorist in Owerri, the state capital.

The incident, which reportedly occurred on October 8, 2026, was captured in a video that circulated widely on social media, prompting the police to launch an investigation.

The police identified the traffic warden as Inspector Chinewe Ejiogu, attached to the Shell Camp Divisional Police Headquarters. The two Civil Guard personnel were identified as Kelechi Nzediagwu and Onyedikachi Chibuike.

The command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, disclosed the development in a statement on Friday, October 9, confirming that the three personnel were being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

Viral Video Shows Alleged Extortion

According to reports, the officers stopped the motorist over an alleged traffic violation involving the absence of a driver’s licence.

A video of the encounter showed the operatives confronting the driver, with reports indicating that they demanded money rather than following the appropriate enforcement procedure.

A report by Premium Times stated that the officers allegedly demanded ₦35,000 from the motorist, who later negotiated the amount down to ₦15,000 and transferred the money to an account provided by the operatives.

The circumstances surrounding the encounter and the allegations against the personnel are now subject to police investigation.

Commissioner Orders Investigation

The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, has directed the command’s Complaint Response Unit (CRU) to investigate the incident.

The police also urged the affected motorist to report to the unit and provide information that could assist investigators in establishing what happened.

Okoye said appropriate disciplinary action would follow the conclusion of the investigation.

The command condemned the conduct depicted in the video, describing it as inconsistent with the standards of discipline and integrity expected of law enforcement personnel.

Police Warn Against Abuse of Office

The command reiterated that no traffic violation justifies extortion, harassment or abuse of office.

It warned officers to perform their duties in accordance with the law and treat members of the public with respect.

Residents were also encouraged to report suspected misconduct by security personnel through the appropriate channels.

The investigation is expected to determine the circumstances of the incident and whether disciplinary or further legal action is warranted.