Story by Iyiola Ayomide
Two suspects linked to the murder of Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, have escaped from police custody.
Azuka was kidnapped on December 24, 2024, in Inland Town, Onitsha, and his decomposing remains were discovered on February 6, 2025, under the Second Niger Bridge.
A combined security team arrested nine individuals in connection with the crime.
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the suspects’ escape, with spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga stating that authorities have activated an operational plan for their re-arrest.
He added that officers responsible for the escape would face disciplinary action.
Police Statement on Escape
SP Ikenga disclosed that the two escaped while assisting the Police Investigating Officers in an operation to apprehend the receiver of vehicles used in the gang’s criminal activities.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc MNIPS PhD, on receipt of the report today, February 18, 2025, about the escape of the two suspects involved in the murder of Late Hon. Justice Azuka, Member Representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the State House of Assembly,” the statement read.
“He has consequently deployed both human, operational, and intelligence assets of the Command for the re-arrest of the suspects and directed immediate disciplinary action against the officers found wanton in this regard.”
“Preliminary information reveals that following the confession of the criminal gang, two of the suspects assisted the Police Investigating Officers in an operation to arrest the receiver and recover the operational vehicles that the gang used in their deadly activities.”
“During the onslaught operation by the operatives, the suspect (the receiver) was arrested, and two vehicles suspected to have been snatched from unsuspecting members of the public were recovered. Unfortunately, the other two suspects fled the scene.”
Police Intensify Search
The Commissioner of Police has assured that efforts are in top gear to re-arrest the fugitives.
“To this end, the CP assured that the Command is on the offensive against every criminal element in the State and that efforts are in top gear to ensure that the suspects are re-arrested and justice served. The erring officers will also face disciplinary action if found culpable.”
Authorities are urging the public to provide any useful information that could lead to the suspects’ capture.