The Police Service Commission (PSC) has applauded detectives from the Zonal Command Headquarters in Onikan, Lagos State, and the Bayelsa Police Command for rejecting a ₦174 million bribe and recovering ₦10 million extorted from commuters.
DIG Kashimu Argungu (rtd), Chairman of the PSC, hailed the officers’ actions as significant progress toward building a corruption-free police force. A statement issued by Ikechukwu Ani, Head of Press and Public Relations at the PSC, emphasized Argungu’s vision of fostering transparency and integrity within the Police Service Commission and the Nigeria Police Force.
Argungu, who declared his commitment to zero tolerance for corruption upon assuming office, has subjected himself to public accountability, encouraging whistleblowers to expose any wrongdoing. His leadership introduced a whistle-blowing policy to strengthen anti-corruption efforts within the force.
The PSC highlighted two recent incidents as milestones in this effort. Detectives from the Raider Team of Zone 2 Command in Lagos rejected a ₦174 million bribe during an investigation into a suspected internet fraudster, Patrick Akpoguma. CSP Ngozi Braide, who led the operation, collected $100,000 (equivalent to the bribe) as evidence before arresting the suspect for further investigation.
In Bayelsa State, officers from Zone 16 Command Headquarters in Yenagoa were praised for their swift recovery of ₦10 million extorted from commuters, further demonstrating a commitment to justice.
Argungu expressed optimism about these actions, describing them as signs of growing integrity within the police force. He commended the Inspector General of Police for instilling an anti-corruption ethos among officers and assured that exceptional performance would be rewarded.
“The Commission has the authority to grant accelerated promotions based on merit and performance, although not special promotions,” Argungu explained. He urged officers to maintain their focus on national security and reaffirmed the commitment to overcoming insurgency and terrorism challenges.
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