Two suspects linked to the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, the late representative of Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, have escaped from police custody.
The Anambra State Police Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Tuesday in Awka.
Background of the Case
Azuka was abducted by gunmen on Christmas Eve while returning home for the festivities. His lifeless body was discovered earlier this month on the Second Niger Bridge.
Police Response and Investigation
Following the suspects’ escape, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, immediately deployed operational, intelligence, and human resources to ensure their re-arrest. He also ordered disciplinary action against officers found negligent in the incident.
According to Ikenga, the suspects had been assisting the police in an operation to arrest a receiver of stolen goods and recover vehicles used by the criminal gang. During the operation, the receiver was apprehended, and two stolen vehicles were recovered, but the two suspects managed to escape.
Manhunt Launched, Officers Face Disciplinary Action
The police commissioner has assured the public that efforts are in top gear to re-arrest the suspects and bring them to justice. Additionally, any officers found culpable of negligence will face disciplinary action.
“The Command remains committed to an aggressive crackdown on criminal elements in the state,” Ikenga stated.
