The Rivers State Police Command has urged residents to report any police officer demanding cash transfers or conducting unauthorized searches of personal phones, laptops, or other devices at checkpoints.
The advisory follows reports of individuals impersonating police officers, dressed in black attire, who have been extorting unsuspecting citizens across the State.
The Rivers Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adewole Adepoju, has launched a robust mechanism to monitor, identify, apprehend, and prosecute anyone found engaging in these illegal acts.
CP Adepoju emphasised that no person, regardless of claimed police affiliation, has the authority to conduct searches on personal devices or force citizens to withdraw or transfer money from financial institutions or POS operators.
The Command urged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activities or hostile checkpoints.
Citizens can reach the following hotlines: Complaint Response Unit (CRU) – 07057605256, 08120822987, 09035774814; Police Public Relations Officer – 09014273818; and the Control Room – 08032003514.
Adepoju reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding citizens and maintaining law and order. He appealed for the cooperation of citizens with legitimate police operations.