The Anambra State Police Command has come under fire following its admission of operational failures that led to the escape of two suspects linked to the brutal murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, the lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
The revelation has sparked widespread outrage, with stakeholders, political figures, and the public questioning the integrity of the investigation. Many, including the Labour Party caucus in the state assembly, have accused the police of complicity in the suspects’ disappearance.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, assured the public that a full-scale manhunt was underway to recapture the escapees and bring all perpetrators of the heinous crime to justice.
“Anambra State Police Command takes full responsibility for the operational lapses that led to the escape of the two suspects involved in the gruesome murder of Hon. Justice Azuka. We remain committed to re-arresting them and ensuring that no stone is left unturned in our pursuit of justice,” Ikenga stated.
The Command also reiterated its dedication to transparency, vowing to keep the public informed on the progress of the case. However, it urged residents to refrain from making inflammatory remarks that could escalate tensions or compromise ongoing investigations.
“While acknowledging the right to freedom of speech, the Command calls on stakeholders to exercise restraint in their comments and reactions. It is crucial to prevent unnecessary provocations that could heighten tensions,” the statement added.
Despite these reassurances, public skepticism has only deepened, especially as the police admitted the suspects had been missing for eight days before officially announcing their escape. This delay has fueled suspicions of foul play, with critics alleging a possible cover-up within the ranks of law enforcement.
SaharaReporters, in an earlier report, highlighted the growing discontent among the public, with some residents expressing fears that the escape could be an attempt to shield influential figures behind the lawmaker’s murder.
As pressure mounts, the Anambra State Police Command is facing intense scrutiny. The public is demanding swift action—not just in recapturing the suspects, but in ensuring that the justice system is not compromised by vested interests.
For now, the escaped suspects remain at large, and the lingering question remains: Was this truly an operational lapse, or is there something more sinister at play?
PIONEER NEWS 