A burglary suspect, Chuks Obuh who was apprehended by a vigilante group and handed over to the police has escaped from detention in Benin City, Edo State.
Spokesperson of the State Police Command, SP Bello Kontongs who confirmed the development in a statement on Tuesday, September 7, debunked claim in an online publication that the suspect’s gang members bribed police to secure his freedom.
The PPRO said that the suspect was arrested at Agbor Road in Benin city and was handed over to the men of Esigie police Division, Benin city for discrete investigation and possible prosecution.
“Contrary to what was reported on social media that the suspect’s syndicate bought police over to secure the freedom of their member, the suspect actually escaped from lawful custody on 5th September, 21 during a heavy downpour at about 20:30 hours,” he stated.
“To keep the record straight, the DPO of the area where the case was transferred to is known to be professional in his dealings and therefore cannot compromise in a situation where a criminal matter is under investigation
“When the escape was reported on Sunday 5/9/2021 at about 2030hrs while there was heavy downpour, the DPO immediately informed the Commissioner of Police about the incident and the CP in his response directed a disciplinary action be instituted against the officers and men on duty as at the time of the incident and finally directed in-depth investigation into the matter
“It is important to also state that items recovered from the suspect and the N50,000 have been duly registered with the exhibit keeper.” he added.
The command urged members of the public to discountenance the fake news, saying it would not be distracted by mischief makers who are bent on painting the police and the DPO Esigie in bad light.
Kontongs said efforts are in top gear to re-arrest the escaped suspect and appealed to members of the public who have useful information on his whereabouts to contact the police.
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