CP orders probe as outrage brings with it alleged illegal detention and extortion at Rivers Octopus unit – THIS UPDATE

By Ayo Kehinde

Public outrage has continued to grow over allegations of illegal detention, extortion and human rights violations involving operatives of the Octopus Unit, C4i, Mile 2, Diobu, Port Harcourt, as the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, ordered a thorough investigation into the allegations.

The controversy follows allegations circulating on social media that an unnamed individual was arrested and detained at the police tactical unit over a petition allegedly unrelated to him.

According to reports, the victim was physically assaulted and forced to pay 180,000 naira before regaining freedom after spending several days in detention.

Reacting to the development on Monday, the Spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, ASP Blessing Agabe, confirmed that the Commissioner of Police had ordered the immediate constitution of an investigative panel to look into the allegations and determine the circumstances of the incident.

Agabe said the action is consistent with the command’s commitment to professionalism, responsibility and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights.

“The Investigative Committee has been instructed to carefully examine the incident and establish the facts surrounding the allegations,” he said.

Agabe added that the Police Commissioner appealed to the public and individuals with credible information to assist the investigative process.

According to her, those affected were encouraged to report to the office of the Police Public Relations Officer or contact the Complaint Response Unit through designated channels.

CP Adepoju also reiterated the command’s zero tolerance towards illegal detention and abuse of police powers.

“Detention beyond the statutory period without due process is illegal, unacceptable and will not be tolerated in any way,” he said.

He warned that any official found guilty of unethical or illegal conduct will face disciplinary measures in accordance with existing laws and regulations.

“The Rivers State Police Command remains committed to accountability, transparency and respect for human dignity,” he assured.

Adepoju also assured residents that the command remains committed to protecting the rights, freedom and dignity of every citizen.

Meanwhile, lawyer and human rights defender, Wisdom Chude, who published the allegations, raised further concerns about the treatment of detainees and conditions inside the facility.

Chude said police officers initially refused to release the victim’s belongings after his release from detention.

According to him, the victim’s belongings, including clothes and footwear, would be returned only after additional payments were made.

It further stated that several detainees had remained in police custody for between two and three months without being granted bail or charged before a court of competent jurisdiction.

The rights defender also said an inmate allegedly paid N200,000 for bail but was later returned to the holding cell despite the payment.

Describing the alleged actions as a serious violation of fundamental human rights, Chude questioned the effectiveness of existing oversight structures set up to monitor detention facilities.

“In Rivers State, we have the Criminal Justice Administration Monitoring Committee, while judges and chief magistrates are required to regularly inspect detention facilities,” he said.

He expressed concern that the allegations, if proven, could indicate significant deficiencies in accountability and monitoring systems.

“The Octopus Unit deserves careful scrutiny. The extent of the alleged human rights violations should be a cause for serious public concern,” Chude added.

He questioned how individuals could conceivably remain in detention for prolonged periods without access to bail, trial in court or intervention from relevant oversight institutions.

Chude subsequently called for a thorough investigation into the allegations and urged the authorities to ensure strict compliance with constitutional provisions and legal procedures.

He also appealed to the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to carry out regular inspections of police tactical units across the state.

According to him, direct inspections by police top brass would provide an independent assessment of conditions in detention facilities instead of relying solely on reports submitted by unit commanders.

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