The Nigeria Police Force has uncovered the theft of N43.16 million out of N74.9 million in impounded new Naira notes by four of its officers during an unauthorized operation at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport.
The officers, led by DSP Peter Ejike, reportedly intercepted the money, detained a suspect illegally, and misrepresented the seized amount as N31.79 million.
Force Public Relations Officer ACP Muyiwa Adejobi disclosed that forensic investigations revealed a conspiracy to divert the money, with one officer tasked to hide the stolen cash outside Abuja.
The incident, which occurred on August 26, 2023, came to light after complaints from the money’s owners prompted an investigation by the IGP Monitoring Unit. It was discovered that the officers manipulated evidence, including photos of the cash, to cover their tracks.
The culprits, including DSP Ejike, Inspector Esther Okafor, Inspector Ekende Edwin, and Sergeant Talabi Kayode, have been suspended for misconduct, corruption, and abuse of office. Adejobi assured the public that they would face prosecution after legal and administrative procedures.
The Inspector-General of Police condemned the actions, reiterating the Force’s commitment to accountability and reform while dismissing allegations linking him to currency smuggling. He urged Nigerians to ignore false narratives aimed at discrediting the police’s ongoing reforms.
