By Karen James
Awka, Nigeria. The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has provided clarity on the escape of two suspects linked to the murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a lawmaker representing Onitsha North One Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Speaking at a press briefing on Friday at the Anambra State Police Command headquarters, CP Orutugu reassured the public of the Command’s commitment to bringing the fugitives to justice and strengthening security in the state.
According to CP Orutugu, the incident occurred two days before he officially assumed office on February 10, 2025. However, upon receiving intelligence on February 18, he ordered a full investigation into the matter.
“Our findings confirm that the incident took place on February 8, 2025, in Obosi. The two fleeing suspects, Ikemefuna Ossai from Delta State and Chinedu Okoli from Imo State, were among the eleven suspects already apprehended and paraded by the Command,” Orutugu explained.
“While they are not the principal actors in the crime, they served as drivers for the criminal gang. They were assisting operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu in tracking down one Tochukwu Akolisa from Anambra State, a known receiver of stolen vehicles and belongings from the gang’s victims.”
During the operation to arrest Akolisa, he attempted to escape upon sighting the police. In the process, he was shot in the leg and taken into custody. However, in the confusion that followed, the two suspects managed to flee in a vehicle.
“Despite an immediate police pursuit, the suspects abandoned the vehicle and escaped into a nearby bush. All efforts to rearrest them have so far been unsuccessful,” the Commissioner stated.
CP Orutugu assured the public that measures are in place to track down the escapees, and disciplinary action has been initiated against officers whose lapses contributed to the security breach.
“As the Commissioner of Police, I consider it a priority to re-arrest these suspects and implement stringent measures to prevent such incidents in the future. I have also briefed the Force Headquarters on the situation and activated operational strategies to locate the suspects,” he added.
The Recent Police Achievements of the a police in the state; Despite the setback, CP Orutugu highlighted some of the Command’s recent successes in crime-fighting:
• Arrest of an Armed Suspect: On February 18, 2025, police operatives arrested Orji Chigozie in the Upper Iweka area of Onitsha. A locally made Beretta pistol was recovered from his possession, and investigations are ongoing.
• Rescue of an Abducted Victim: In a coordinated operation on February 19, 2025, police successfully rescued a victim abducted along Ilo Akpukwu Road, Nkwelle Ezunaka. The kidnappers abandoned an ash-colored Toyota Corolla, which has since been recovered.
Commitment to Strengthening Security
CP Orutugu reaffirmed the Anambra Police Command’s dedication to protecting residents and working closely with other security agencies to enhance safety.
“We remain resolute in our mission to ensure Anambra State is secure for all. The police, in synergy with the military, other security agencies, and local vigilante groups, will continue to disrupt criminal activities and enforce law and order across the state,” he assured.
The Commissioner urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to combat crime effectively.
