In a dramatic turn of events, Bayelsa State police have returned N3 million that was allegedly extorted from Nigerian expatriate Kelechi Isaac. The incident unfolded on August 26 in Odi, Bayelsa State, when Isaac, returning from a wedding with friends, was reportedly coerced at gunpoint by police operatives.
The extortion was initially reported by PREMIUM TIMES, detailing how five officers forced Isaac to transfer the substantial sum into two separate bank accounts. The case drew widespread attention, leading to the arrest of the implicated officers.
Police spokesperson Muyiwa Adejobi confirmed the arrest of the involved personnel from Zone 16 headquarters in Bayelsa State. On September 5, Assistant Inspector-General of Police Paul Omata notified Isaac that the stolen funds had been recovered. However, complications arose regarding the return of the money, with disagreements over safety concerns and pickup arrangements.
Isaac, who is originally from Nguru Nworie in Imo State but resides in Ghana, expressed relief upon finally receiving the funds. He reported that although the police initially returned the money in cash, he insisted on having it transferred to his bank account via a Point of Sale (POS) machine to ensure his safety.
“I have just received the money today,” Isaac confirmed in a WhatsApp message. “They handed it over in cash, but I insisted on a POS transfer to my account, which they facilitated.”
This incident highlights ongoing issues of police misconduct and the challenges faced by victims seeking justice in Nigeria.
Peoplesmind