The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that two suspects linked to the abduction and murder of Anambra State House of Assembly member, Justice Azuka, have escaped from custody.
Azuka, who represented Onitsha 1 Constituency, was laid to rest over the weekend in his hometown, Onitsha. However, reports of the suspects’ escape had been circulating before police officially confirmed the incident.
In a statement, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, acknowledged the escape and assured the public that efforts were underway to rearrest the fugitives. He also stated that disciplinary measures would be taken against any officers found culpable.
“The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, upon receiving the report today, 18th February 2025, regarding the escape of the two suspects involved in the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, has deployed human, operational, and intelligence assets of the command to ensure their re-arrest,” the statement read.
“He has also ordered immediate disciplinary action against any officers responsible for negligence in the matter.”
According to preliminary findings, the escape occurred while the suspects were assisting police investigators in an operation to apprehend the receiver of stolen items and recover vehicles used in their criminal activities.
“During the operation, the receiver was successfully arrested, and two vehicles believed to have been snatched from unsuspecting victims were recovered. However, in the course of the operation, two of the suspects managed to escape,” Ikenga explained.
The Commissioner of Police reaffirmed the command’s commitment to tracking down the fugitives and ensuring that justice is served. He also warned that any officers found guilty of negligence in the matter would face severe disciplinary action.
“The command remains resolute in its fight against criminal elements in Anambra State. Efforts are in top gear to ensure that the escaped suspects are re-arrested and brought to justice,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the escape has sparked concerns among residents, who are calling for improved security measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
