Awka, Anambra State – Two suspects linked to the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, have escaped from police custody, prompting an urgent manhunt by law enforcement authorities.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement on Tuesday, emphasizing the seriousness of the situation. According to Ikenga, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has deployed extensive human, operational, and intelligence resources to ensure the immediate re-arrest of the fugitives. He also directed disciplinary action against officers whose negligence may have contributed to the escape.
“Following the confession of the criminal gang, two suspects were assisting police officers in an operation to apprehend a receiver of stolen goods and recover operational vehicles used in the crime,” Ikenga stated. During the operation, law enforcement successfully arrested the alleged receiver and recovered two vehicles suspected to have been stolen. However, the two suspects managed to escape.
In response, CP Orutugu assured the public that the police are intensifying efforts to recapture the fugitives and hold accountable any officers found culpable of misconduct. He reiterated the command’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring justice for the late lawmaker.
The police urge anyone with information on the whereabouts of the escaped suspects to come forward, assuring the public that every measure is being taken to maintain security and uphold the rule of law in Anambra State.
