Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the escape of two suspects allegedly involved in the kidnapping and murder of a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Justice Azuka.
The escape, which occurred during a police operation, has sparked concerns among residents, coming just days after the late lawmaker was laid to rest in his hometown, Onitsha.
In a press statement on Monday, February 18, 2025, the spokesperson of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, assured the public that efforts were ongoing to re-arrest the fugitives. He also revealed that disciplinary action would be taken against any culpable officers.
According to the statement, the suspects escaped while assisting police investigators in an operation aimed at apprehending a receiver and recovering vehicles used in criminal activities. During the operation, the receiver was successfully arrested, and two stolen vehicles were recovered. However, the two suspects managed to flee.
Reacting to the development, the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, deployed tactical teams and intelligence operatives to track down the fugitives. He vowed that the command remains committed to bringing the perpetrators of the crime to justice.
“The command will not condone negligence, and any officers found to have compromised in this matter will face disciplinary action,” the statement read.
The police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity that could lead to the re-arrest of the escaped suspects.
Hon. Justice Azuka, who represented Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, was kidnapped and later murdered by unknown assailants. His tragic death sent shockwaves across the state, prompting intensified security measures.
Authorities have reassured the public of their determination to rid Anambra of criminal elements and bring all those involved in the killing of the lawmaker to justice.
