The Anambra State Police Command has admitted responsibility for the escape of the operational lapses that led to the escape of two suspects arrested in connection with the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka.
The two suspects, Ikemefuna Ossai and Chinedu Okoli, escaped on February 8, 2025, while leading operatives to arrest other suspects in Onitsha.
The State Police Command in a statement on Thursday by its spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said it took full responsibility for the escape of the suspects.
“Anambra Police Command has taken full responsibility for the operational lapses of our operatives regarding the escape of two suspects involved in the gruesome murder of Hon Justice Azuka Honourable Member representing Onitsha North I Constituency.
“The Command hereby reiterates that among other necessary security measures ongoing by the Command to improve safety in the State, it shall not rest until the fleeing suspects are re-arrested and all those involved brought to book.
“Given the above, in the spirit of transparency, the Command has briefed Anambra people and the general public, reaffirming its commitment to keeping residents informed about the evolving security situation in the State,” the statement said.
While noting the right of individuals or groups for freedom of speech, the Command however urged relevant stakeholders to exercise restraint on the comments/reactions to avoid inciting one another and to prevent the escalating tensions and to ensure that the investigation remains impartial, thereby upholding the principles of justice.
247nextnews.com reports that the lawmaker was kidnapped in Onitsha on December 24, 2024, while returning home for the yuletide holiday.
His decomposing body was however discover by joint security forces near the Second Niger Bridge on February 6, 2025.
