The Commissioner of Police Anambra state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, yesterday, while addressing press men at the state command in Awka, provided updates on the ongoing investigation into the escape of two of the suspected criminals who kidnapped and murdered Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly who was murdered in cold blood. The said incident occurred on February 8, 2025, in Obosi, two days before CP Orutugu assumed office.
"It is important to reiterate that this unfortunate incident occurred two days before I formally assumed office as the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State, on 10th February 2025. However, upon receiving intelligence regarding this case on 18th February 2025, I deemed it necessary to brief Ndi Anambra and the general public, reaffirming the Command’s commitment to keeping residents informed about the evolving security situation in the state."
"Recognizing the gravity of this development, I personally took measures to ensure a meticulous investigation aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the case."
He said findings from investigations confirmed that the incident took place on 8th February 2025 in Obosi. As two suspects, identified as Ikemefuna Ossai from Delta State and Chinedu Okoli from Imo State, are among the eleven (11) suspects already apprehended and paraded by the Command.
"While they are not the principal actors in the crime, they served as drivers for the criminal gang. The duo was assisting operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RSS) Awkuzu in apprehending one Tochukwu Akolisa from Anambra State.
The CP said that according to their statements, Tochukwu Akolisa was one of the receivers or buyers of stolen vehicles and belongings of their victims.
He said that during an operation to arrest Tochukwu Akolisa, he attempted to flee upon sighting the police operatives who were accompanied by Ikemefuna and Chinedu. In the course of this operation, Tochukwu Akolisa was shot in the leg and taken into custody.
However, in the ensuing confusion, the two suspects managed to escape in a vehicle. Despite an immediate pursuit by police operatives, they abandoned the vehicle and fled into a nearby bush. Unfortunately, all efforts to re-arrest them have so far been unsuccessful.
"As the substantive Commissioner of Police, I consider it a priority to ensure the re-arrest of these suspects and to implement stringent measures to prevent such security breaches in the future."
"I have duly briefed the Force Headquarters on the current situation and the steps taken, including activating operational strategies to apprehend the suspects at large and initiating disciplinary actions against officers whose lapses contributed to their escape."
"On behalf of the Anambra State Police Command and in collaboration with other security agencies, I wish to assure the public that we remain dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of all residents. The Nigeria Police Force, as the lead agency in internal security, will continue to work in synergy with the military, other security agencies, and local vigilante groups to enhance operational capacity, security coverage, and tactical efficiency. Our goal is to disrupt criminal activities and ensure that Anambra State remains a safe and secure environment for all."
He said that despite the setback, the Anambra State Police Command has achieved notable successes since he assumed office.