Imo Police Detain Traffic Warden and Two Civil Guards Over Alleged Extortion in Owerri
Authorities in Imo State have arrested a police inspector and two civil guard members following public circulation of video footage showing the alleged harassment and extortion of a driver.
Police authorities in Imo State have detained a police traffic warden and two members of the State Civil Guard Corps after video footage circulated online depicting the alleged extortion and intimidation of a driver in Owerri, according to a report by Vanguard News.
The incident, which reportedly took place on October 8, 2026, drew public scrutiny after recordings of the encounter spread across social media platforms, prompting command officials to intervene and place the personnel in custody.
Details of the Allegations and Arrests
According to an official statement issued by the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, and reported by Vanguard, the detained officers include Police Inspector Chinwe Ejiogu, who is attached to the Shell Camp Divisional Police Headquarters. The two detained members of the State Civil Guard Corps were identified as Kelechi Nzediagwu and Onyedikachi Chibuike.
The officers allegedly targeted a motorist who was accused of operating a vehicle without a driver’s license. State command officials stated that the three suspects are currently being held at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) while an inquiry into the matter proceeds.
Command leadership strongly denounced the behavior shown in the recording, stating that such actions fall well short of the discipline and operational integrity required of law enforcement officers.
Internal Investigations Launched
Following the public circulation of the footage, the Imo State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso, directed the command’s Complaint Response Unit (CRU) to conduct an investigation into the encounter. Command representatives noted that findings from the unit will determine appropriate administrative or disciplinary penalties for the personnel involved.
The police statement emphasized that traffic violations do not warrant illicit payments, intimidation, or mistreatment of drivers under any circumstances. Authorities instructed active officers to carry out their responsibilities within legal boundaries and maintain respectful conduct toward the public.
To assist with the investigation, the command called on the affected motorist to step forward and provide testimony to the Complaint Response Unit. Further information regarding the driver’s identity or the specific location of the encounter within Owerri was not disclosed in the official police communication.
Focus on Public Reporting and Oversight
The state command reiterated that members of the public should utilize established oversight mechanisms to report improper conduct by officers. The police affirmed that verified reports of misconduct would be subject to official administrative proceedings.
The timeline for concluding the internal investigation has not yet been specified by police leadership, and authorities have not indicated whether the civilian guard personnel will face parallel proceedings within their own administrative service.
Source: Vanguard News
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