A case of purported extortion and harassment of youths by security personnel has been reported in Enyiogugu Autonomous Community in Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State.
Eyewitnesses claimed that over 50 young people were forced at gunpoint to transfer money from their bank accounts to designated POS account numbers at a checkpoint on the Enyiogugu Mbaise road.
The incident has sparked widespread anger among residents, who are calling on traditional rulers like Eze Leo Nwokocha and other community leaders to intervene and end the alleged abuses. Reports stated that the extortion has forced many youths to avoid the checkpoint by traveling at night, exposing them to heightened risks of robbery and kidnapping.
It was gathered that Stanley, an eyewitness, urged the Imo State Police Command to investigate and address the situation immediately. He also noted that similar incidents have been reported in the area, intensifying public demands for swift action.
“The Imo State Police Command has been urged to take immediate action to address the situation and ensure the safety and security of the youths in the community,” he said, adding “It is worth noting that there have been reports of insecurity in Imo State, including kidnapping and armed robbery,” he said.
“The state government and security agencies have been working to address the situation, but more needs to be done to ensure the safety and security of citizens.”
Speaking on the issue on Friday, the police spokesman in the state, Henry Okoye said necessary steps have been taken to ensure that officers found culpable are apprehended and punish. This complaint is acknowledged, necessary steps and has been initiated to look into this and ensure that officers found culpable are severely sanctioned,” he noted.
