Army denies extortion allegations over Delta checkpoint incident

The Headquarters 63 Brigade, Sector 1 Joint Task Force (South South), Operation DELTA SAFE, has denied allegations of extortion and assault against its personnel following a checkpoint incident in Ibusa, Oshimili North Local Government Area of Delta State.

The Brigade described a viral video circulating on social media about the incident as misleading, insisting that its troops acted professionally while responding to a security situation in the community.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, and signed by the Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, 63 Brigade, Asaba, Iliyasu Rijau, the military said the incident occurred at about 10 pm on November 3, following reports of cult-related violence in the area.

According to the statement, troops had established a snap checkpoint as part of efforts to address security concerns in Ibusa, where residents had reportedly experienced recurring cult clashes, armed robbery and communal unrest.

The Brigade explained that three men approached the checkpoint but allegedly refused to stop for identification and routine security checks.

It further alleged that one of the men attempted to snatch a soldier’s rifle during the encounter but only succeeded in pulling out its magazine, sustaining a hand injury from its sharp edges.

“The troops promptly evacuated the injured individual and his two companions to a nearby pharmacy for first aid before taking them to Headquarters 63 Brigade for further medical attention and investigation,” the statement said.

The Brigade added that preliminary investigations indicated that the three men had confessed to involvement in cult-related activities and internet fraud.

It, however, dismissed allegations that its personnel demanded money from the individuals, stressing that extortion was contrary to the professional standards of the Nigerian Army.

“Extortion or demanding money from members of the public is against the professional standards and values of the Nigerian Army,” the statement maintained.

The military also questioned the credibility of the individual who circulated the video, alleging that he was an IPOB fugitive residing in Ghana and was not present at the scene of the incident.

It further accused the individual of repeatedly publishing materials intended to discredit security agencies.

The Commander of 63 Brigade urged residents of Ibusa and the general public to remain calm, disregard unverified reports and continue providing credible information to security agencies.

He reaffirmed the Brigade’s commitment to protecting lives and property in the area in accordance with the law, while warning cultists and other criminal elements to abandon their activities or face the full weight of the law.

The Brigade said its troops would continue working with other security agencies and civil authorities to maintain peace and security in Ibusa and its environs.