From Ifeoma Ejiofor
The Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Oji Ama(CP) has ordered the immediate issuance of queries to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in charge of 3-3 Police Station and a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), over disappearance of an armed robbery suspect.
CP Ama also directed immediate commencement of disciplinary proceedings against an Inspector of Police, following allegations concerning the whereabouts of an armed robbery suspect reportedly arrested and brought to the station.
The Commissioner gave the directivesafter personally interviewing the complainant and the police officers concerned over a viral video alleging that an armed robbery suspect arrested and brought to the station could not be accounted for.
CP Nnanna described the allegation as serious and capable of undermining public confidence in the Police, adding that the Command would not condone any act of unprofessional conduct, dereliction of duty, abuse of office or compromise of established procedures by any police officer.
The Commissioner has consequently directed the X-Squad of the Command to conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the arrest, detention, documentation and subsequent whereabouts of the suspect, including the actions and responsibilities of officers involved.
The CP disclosed that necessary operational measures have been put in place to facilitate the rearrest of the suspect, while assuring members of the public that the Command would communicate the outcome of the investigation when established.
He however cautioned members of the public against circulation of unverified information capable of prejudicing an ongoing investigation, noting that facts must be established through due process.
He reiterated that accountability remains a core component of the Command’s leadership philosophy, and that no police officer is above scrutiny or the established disciplinary process.
Meanwhile the Command on Tuesday said as part of it’s sustained intelligence-led offensive against criminal elements across the State has arrested thirteen suspects in separate operations and recovered firearms, ammunition, charms, cult-related insignias, suspected illicit drugs, dangerous weapons and a stolen vehicle.