Commercial driver cries out for help over repeated extortion by police officers in Warri

A disturbing trend of repeated extortion by police officers has been reported Friday on the expressway in Warri, Delta State.

Bus drivers and passengers have come forward to lament the extortion, which they claim is a daily occurrence.

According to a bus driver (name withheld) who regularly plies the route, "The same squad of police that takes money from us in the morning will go, eat, and come back in the evening to take money again." The driver expressed frustration, stating, "I spent N1000 along the road, and now I'm paying another N1000 again."

PEBNEWS correspondent asked how the police keep track of who has paid, the driver revealed that "police always give us numbers." This implies that the police have a system in place to monitor payments, but it does not seem to prevent repeated extortion.

A passenger echoed the driver's sentiments, expressing disgust at the practice. "As them collect, them dey balance oga for office," the passenger said, implying that the police officers are sharing the bribes with their superiors. 

The passenger further alleged, "If you nor balance for office, them nor go send you come road again, and even the oga for station get oga him dey balance."

This practice has resulted in significant financial burdens on bus drivers and passengers, who are already struggling with the economic challenges of daily life. 

PEBNEWS can report that the repeated extortion also hinders smooth transportation, causing frustration and delays for commuters.

The allegations highlight the need for authorities to take action against police corruption and ensure that officers are held accountable for their actions. Until then, bus drivers and passengers will continue to bear the brunt of this extortion.