The Kebbi State Police Command has detained three officers in connection with the death of a suspect, Abubakar Auwal, in police custody in Jega town.
Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed the development in a statement issued to journalists.
According to the statement, Auwal was arrested on April 15, 2025, following a report of stolen trailer rims at the Jega Divisional Police Headquarters. While in custody, he reportedly collapsed during interrogation on April 16 at about 6:00 a.m. and was rushed to the General Hospital in Jega, where he later died at approximately 10:00 p.m. the same day.
“Given the suspicious circumstances surrounding the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Bello M. Sani, ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough probe,” the statement read.
The investigation found three officers culpable, leading to their detention at the SCID for further inquiry and disciplinary action. Additionally, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Jega has been queried and redeployed.
The statement added: “The Nigeria Police Force reassures the public of its commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. The misconduct of a few does not represent the values of the force. Swift disciplinary measures are taken to ensure justice and accountability.”
