Robbery Suspect's Disappearance: Anambra CP Queries DPO, Orders Investigation

CP Nnanna Oji Ama, the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, has taken stern action following reports of an armed robbery suspect's alleged disappearance from custody. He has mandated immediate queries for the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the 3-3 Police Station and a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). Furthermore, disciplinary measures are set to commence without delay against an Inspector of Police, all stemming from allegations regarding the whereabouts of a suspect who was reportedly apprehended and brought to the station.

According to SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the command's spokesperson, these directives were issued by the Commissioner on October 5. This action followed the CP's personal interviews with both the complainant and the implicated police officers, prompted by a viral video. The video had raised serious concerns, claiming that an armed robbery suspect, supposedly arrested and detained at the station, had gone missing.

The police chief characterized the allegation as grave, noting its potential to erode public trust in the Nigeria Police Force. He firmly stated that the Command would not tolerate any instances of unprofessional behavior, neglect of duty, misuse of authority, or deviation from standard operational procedures by its personnel.

Consequently, the Commissioner has tasked the Command's X-Squad with conducting an exhaustive inquiry. This investigation will delve into the entire sequence of events, from the suspect's arrest and detention to their documentation and eventual disappearance, as well as scrutinizing the roles and accountability of all officers implicated.

The CP also revealed that tactical operational steps are now in motion to facilitate the re-arrest of the suspect. He reassured the public that the findings of the investigation would be made public once concluded.

Furthermore, the Commissioner warned the public against circulating unverified information, emphasizing that such actions could jeopardize the ongoing inquiry. He stressed the importance of establishing facts through due process. Reaffirming the Command's commitment to accountability as a fundamental leadership principle, he asserted that no police officer is exempt from scrutiny or the established disciplinary framework.