Disturbing reports have emerged from Aba, Abia State, where residents have accused members of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) operating in Aba North of unlawful arrests, extortion, and physical abuse.
In a detailed account, a recently released victim alleged that he was randomly arrested on Sunday, May 18, for supposedly filming police operations. He claimed the officers extorted money from motorcycle riders and passersby and demanded bribes ranging from N50,000 to over N300,000, under threats of prolonged detention.
“They seized my phone and beat me for refusing to unlock it,” the victim said. “Officer Dan, their leader, assaulted me in his office and boasted that nothing would happen even if I reported to human rights groups. He said, ‘Aba is not Lagos.’”
According to the victim, he was detained without being profiled or allowed legal counsel. He also claimed that Officer Dan threatened to delete any footage on his phone by securing a court order, and he was denied access to food, water, or communication until eyewitnesses notified his family.
Worse still, he alleged that more than 25 young men were being held at the RRS facility—located inside the Aba North Local Council Secretariat—many without trial or contact with their families. Victims reportedly had to pay between N30,000 and N1.5 million for release, often through POS machines owned by the officers. Detainees were allegedly tagged as “Yahoo boys” if they failed to pay, creating what one source described as a “racket.”
In response, the Abia State RRS Commandant dismissed the allegations as false, asserting that the complainant had fabricated the story following a minor altercation with police.
Abia State Police Command spokesperson, ASP Maureen Chinaka, confirmed that an investigation was underway. “If there’s any evidence against a police officer, the complaint response unit will ensure accountability,” she said, warning that those who try to tarnish the image of the force without proof would face consequences.
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Abia State, Mr. Danladi Isa, emphasized his zero-tolerance stance on misconduct. He revealed that disciplinary measures, including dismissals, have already been taken against erring officers. He encouraged residents to submit petitions and assured the public of confidential handling of complaints.
