{
  "id": 15094166,
  "title": "Rivers Police Suspend DPO Over Alleged Cultists’ Renovation of Outpost",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/17/rivers-police-suspend-dpo-over-alleged-cultists-renovation-of-outpost",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-17T02:02:24.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "This Day",
    "slug": "this-day",
    "url": "https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/10/17/rivers-police-suspend-dpo-over-alleged-cultists-renovation-of-outpost/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Rivers State Police Command has dismissed the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division over allegations that cultists renovated a police outpost in the area, following an investigation ordered by the Commissioner of Police. The Command also reprimanded the divisional officer overseeing the affected outpost, pending the findings of the investigation into the renovation and the alleged celebration of its completion by cultists. The Police Public Relations Officer announced the Command's actions after being alerted to a social media report and video alleging the renovation and visit on October 15. The Command denounced any activity that could tarnish the Nigeria Police Force's integrity and professionalism, warning that police facilities are public institutions meant to protect citizens and enforce the law. The Command emphasized that police facilities must not be used by criminal groups for recognition or influence. The Commissioner of Police directed a thorough investigation to identify the individuals or groups behind the renovation, the officers who authorized the project, and whether proper procedures were followed. The investigation will also determine if any police personnel breached professional standards or compromised the Force's integrity through their involvement. The Command acknowledged that legitimate community contributions to improve police facilities are allowed under Section 26(1)(d) of the Nigeria Police Act 2020, but such assistance must not undermine police independence, professional standards, or security. Any donation or assistance does not grant immunity from investigation or prosecution. The Command reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on cultism, organized crime, and unprofessional conduct among its personnel, promising appropriate disciplinary and legal action against those found guilty, as well as urging residents to cooperate by providing credible information to maintain peace and safety across Rivers State.",
  "summary": "Blessing Ibunge in Port Harcourt The Rivers State Police Command has relieved the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of Abuloma Division of his duties over allegations that suspected cultists renovated",
  "key_points": [
    "DPO suspended for alleged cultists' outpost renovation",
    "Investigation ordered by Commissioner of Police",
    "Police condemn use of facilities by criminal groups"
  ],
  "editors_take": "The suspension of the divisional officer signals an attempt to preserve institutional integrity by investigating whether unauthorized community contributions have compromised the professional independence of the police force.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}