Seven suspects arrested in connection with the abduction and murder of Anambra State House of Assembly member, Honourable Justice Azuka, have reportedly died while in police custody.
According to Razor News, the suspects allegedly succumbed to tetanus resulting from gunshot wounds. A police source, speaking anonymously, confirmed the deaths but provided little detail.
“They have traveled (died). That’s all I can tell you. We suspect they died of tetanus occasioned by bullet wound injuries… Seven of them,” the source stated.
Efforts to obtain confirmation from Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, were unsuccessful, as messages sent to him went unanswered.
This development follows the recent escape of two other suspects in the case. They reportedly fled while being escorted by police operatives to an alleged accomplice’s hideout, raising concerns about security lapses.
The escape has triggered widespread criticism, with many accusing the police of mishandling the case. Some groups have also condemned the Anambra police for downplaying the significance of the escaped suspects, calling for an official apology.
In response, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has vowed to track down the fleeing suspects and revamp the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) unit to improve accountability.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo recently visited the RRS formation in Akwuzu, where CP Orutugu briefed him on ongoing efforts to recapture the escapees and implement reforms within the unit.
