The Anambra State Police Command has acknowledged operational lapses that allowed two suspects connected to the murder of Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, to escape custody.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police assured the public that efforts were underway to recapture the fleeing suspects and ensure all individuals involved in the crime face justice.
Ikenga stated, “Anambra State Police Command has taken full responsibility for the operational lapses of our operatives regarding the escape of the two suspects involved in the gruesome murder of Hon Justice Azuka Honourable Member representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency.
“As part of ongoing security measures, the Command is committed to ensuring that the suspects are re-arrested and that no stone is left unturned in the pursuit of justice.”
Reaffirming its dedication to transparency, the command pledged to keep the public informed about developments in the case while urging residents to avoid inflammatory remarks that could escalate tensions.
The police also emphasised the importance of allowing investigations to proceed without bias, ensuring that justice is served fairly and impartially.
The police spokesperson said, “While noting the right of individuals or groups for freedom of speech, the Command urges relevant stakeholders to exercise restraint on the comments and reactions to avoid inciting one another to prevent the escalation of tensions.”
The Command also called on stakeholders and the general public to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as they work to restore public confidence and security in the state.
SaharaReporters had reported that two suspects linked to the murder of the late lawmaker escaped from police custody.
The suspects’ escape stirred up public outrage with some stakeholders and members of the public including the Labour Party caucus of the Anambra State House of Assembly accusing the state police command of orchestrating the escape of two suspects.
The escape of the suspects became more suspicious with the fact that the police only released a statement about their escape eight days after they disappeared from the police custody.
