A Nigerian police officer, Linus Nwachukwu, attached to the Commissioner of Police (CP) Monitoring Unit in Enugu State, has been accused of a series of brutal assaults and extortion schemes, with the latest victim left unconscious and unable to open his eyes after a savage beating.
The disturbing allegations were revealed through a petition addressed to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, detailing how Nwachukwu and his rogue squad have allegedly operated unchecked for over three years, preying on innocent civilians while reportedly enjoying protection from top police officials.
According to the petition, Nwachukwu’s reign of terror includes unlawful arrests, brutal torture, and financial extortion. In one documented case, the officer and his team reportedly extorted ₦400,000 from a victim, only to turn around and hand him a mere ₦5,000 for medical treatment after inflicting serious injuries.
Another shocking incident occurred on January 22, 2024, when Nwachukwu allegedly arrested and tortured a fellow officer, forcing him to pay ₦400,000 at a Point of Sale (POS) terminal controlled by their accomplices near Parklane. Despite the victim reporting the matter to the Enugu State Police Command, the officers involved faced no repercussions beyond returning the stolen money.
On February 17, Nwachukwu and his men reportedly struck again, targeting another victim near New Heaven, Enugu. The officers allegedly stopped and searched the individual, finding no incriminating evidence. When the victim refused to offer a bribe, they allegedly descended on him with brute force, beating him into unconsciousness.
“He managed to send an SOS and share his live location in real time. He is currently unconscious and no longer able to open his eyes. He has been hospitalised,” the petition revealed, along with a video showing the victim’s deteriorating condition.
The petition further accused Nwachukwu’s team of using unmarked vehicles and wearing civilian clothing, making them indistinguishable from criminals. Victims recounted terrifying encounters where they initially mistook the officers for kidnappers due to their aggressive tactics.
“Last year, my friend was just driving out when Nwachukwu and his team blocked his way with a Sienna car that had no police markings or plate number. They were in mufti, and he thought they were kidnappers. He was tortured, Nwachukwu pointed a gun at him, extorted him, and fled the scene. It was Keke riders and bystanders who informed him that it was Officer Nwachukwu from the CMU office,” the petitioner recounted.
Despite multiple reports against Nwachukwu, the Enugu State Police Command has allegedly shielded him from prosecution. The petitioner expressed frustration, citing previous cases where stolen money was returned to victims, but the officers involved faced no disciplinary action.
“The same officer you recovered money from last year is still operating at the same spot—kidnapping, assaulting, and extorting innocent citizens. This is clear proof that even when corrupt officers are caught, there are no consequences for their criminality,” the petition lamented.
The victim of the most recent assault is currently battling critical injuries, with worsening eyesight due to the severe beating. Plans are underway to transfer him to an eye clinic in Abuja for emergency surgery.
In an urgent plea, the petitioner called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of Officer Nwachukwu and his team, as well as an independent investigation into their activities.
“Sir, the urgent need to arrest Officer Nwachukwu and his team cannot be overlooked before they kill somebody. A committee must be set up to investigate these rogue officers and determine why the Enugu State Police Command has ignored multiple complaints against them,” the petition concluded.
Reacting to the viral allegations, Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, took to social media to urge the Enugu State Police Command to take up the matter. However, with mounting evidence and repeated instances of inaction, many Nigerians remain skeptical about whether justice will be served.
As pressure mounts on law enforcement authorities, Nigerians are watching closely to see if this case will mark a turning point in tackling police brutality and corruption—or if, once again, impunity will prevail.
PIONEER NEWS 