- Safiu Kehinde
The Kebbi State Police Command have detained three of its officers over alleged murder of an arrested suspect in connection with stealing.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Command’s Spokesperson, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar, in Birnin Kebbi.
According to the Abubakar, the officers attached to the Divisional Police Headquarters, Jega, apprehended one Abubakar Auwal on the 15th of April over alleged theft of trailer truck rims.
Auwal would collapse at the police custody the following day during investigation.
He was reportedly rushed to Jega General Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
“On April 15, based on a complaint of stolen rims of trailer truck reported at the Divisional Police Headquarters, Jega, one Abubakar Auwal was arrested in connection with the case.
“On April 16, at about 6:a.m while the investigation was ongoing, the suspect collapsed in detention.
“He was rushed to the general hospital, Jega, for treatment, but died on the same date at about 10:p.m,” he said.
Abubakar added that based on the development, the Commissioner of Police, Bello Sani directed the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a discreet investigation.
He said three officers were found culpable and are currently detained at the SCID for further investigation, while the Divisional Police Officer in the area has been queried and transferred with immediate effect.
Abubakar reiterated the force’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in discharging its duties.
“The wrong actions of few officers do not reflect the values of the Nigeria Police Force, prompt and disciplinary measures are always taken against erring officers to ensure accountability and justice.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to maintaining discipline, protecting the integrity of its operations and fostering the trust and confidence of the people it serves,” the spokesman said.