The Anambra State Police Command has pledged to investigate the allegation that some of his officers broke into a private residence and extorted some suspects of the sum of N1 million.
A human rights activist, Harrison Gwamnishu, had accused officers of the Anambra State Criminal Investigation Department of invading a home, breaking into the house through windows under the guise of arresting some suspected cultists and extorting them of the sum of N1 million in Akwa.
Reacting, Tochukwu Ikenga, police spokesperson in the state, said the suspects had shut their doors against the officers when they came to make the arrest.
He said State Intelligence Operatives of the Command, acting on credible intelligence, raided a compound at Ifite, Awka, where suspected internet fraudsters and cult members were reportedly operating.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects resisted arrest, locked themselves inside, and refused entry, even after the operatives had properly identified themselves, as requested by the suspects.”He added, “In line with due processes, the suspects were served arraignment notices and later granted bail to allow operatives to complete the necessary court correspondence. This was in compliance with the legal requirement of not keeping suspects in custody beyond 48 hours without arraignment.”
Promising to probe into the alleged extortion, Ikenga said, “With regard to the allegation of paying certain amounts for bail, the Command will investigate the claims. However, any complainant with credible evidence to aid the inquiries is advised to come forward with such proofs.”
“Meanwhile, the suspects scheduled for arraignment include: Chiemerie Chukwuma, Makuochukwu Ikegwuonu, Okeke Uzochukwu, Uchendu Precious Ikenna, Uchenna Mmaduachi Emmanuel, Arinze Duruma, Ugochukwu Isreal and Emmanuel Chimuanya.
“The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its unwavering commitment to professionalism, transparency, and adherence to due process in all its operations. The Command hereby warns individuals and groups who attempt to mislead the public or obstruct law enforcement that they will face the full weight of the law,” the Police Public Relations Officer stated.
