Two suspects implicated in the murder of Anambra State House of Assembly member, Justice Azuka, have escaped from police custody, prompting a widespread manhunt and internal investigation. The escape occurred during an operation to apprehend a receiver of stolen vehicles used by the criminal gang responsible for the lawmaker’s death.
The late hon.Justice Azuka was abducted on December 24, 2024, and his body was discovered on February 6, 2025, at the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha. The discovery, made by a joint security team, revealed the lawmaker’s decomposing remains, confirming his tragic fate. Following the grim discovery, the Anambra State Police announced the arrest of nine individuals suspected to be involved in the abduction and murder.
However, the recent escape of two of these suspects has dealt a blow to the ongoing investigation. According to Anambra State Police Spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, the two suspects were assisting officers in an investigation that led them to a suspected receiver of stolen vehicles. During the operation, the receiver was apprehended, and two vehicles believed to have been stolen were recovered.
ESCAPE OF TWO SUSPECT
Regrettably, amidst the operation, the two suspects, who were accompanying the police, managed to flee the scene. The circumstances surrounding their escape are currently under scrutiny, raising questions about potential lapses in security protocols. The escape has triggered a swift response from the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, who has taken immediate action to rectify the situation.
Commissioner Orutugu has deployed a combination of personnel, operational resources, and intelligence assets to recapture the escaped suspects. The focus is on swiftly bringing them back into custody to ensure they face justice for their alleged involvement in the lawmaker’s murder. The commissioner has also emphasized the importance of accountability within the police force.
In addition to the manhunt for the escaped suspects, Commissioner Orutugu has directed an internal investigation into the circumstances surrounding their escape. He has mandated immediate disciplinary action against any officers found to be negligent or complicit in the incident. This commitment to internal accountability underscores the seriousness with which the police are treating the matter.
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The police commissioner has reassured the public that every effort is being made to re-arrest the escaped suspects and bring them to justice. He has also reiterated the commitment to thoroughly investigate the circumstances of the escape and hold accountable any officers found to have contributed to the security breach. The pursuit of justice for the slain lawmaker and the maintenance of public trust in the police force remain paramount.
