The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of one of its officers in connection with the alleged death of a three-month-old baby in Okija, Ihiala Local Government Area of the state.
Police Regret Incident, Launch Investigation
In a statement, the police expressed regret over the incident that led to the baby's death, although details of the occurrence were not provided. The statement, signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the command has commenced a full-scale investigation to ascertain the facts and ensure justice is served.
Ikenga conveyed the sympathies of the State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, to the family of the deceased child and assured the public that the command would remain transparent and professional in handling the matter. He added that the officer involved is currently undergoing interrogation and other administrative procedures in line with the Nigeria Police Force disciplinary processes.
“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and avoid actions capable of inciting tension, while assuring that no individual found culpable will be shielded from justice,” Ikenga said, promising to communicate further developments.
17 Suspects Arrested for Cultism
Meanwhile, operatives of the state Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) arrested 17 male suspects over the weekend allegedly linked to cult-related activities and other acts contrary to public morality at a hideout in Awka, the state capital. Items recovered from the suspects include dried leaves suspected to be Cannabis Sativa, containers of petroleum jelly, condoms, and other exhibits relevant to an ongoing investigation.
Ikenga named the suspects as Okeke Ugochukwu (28), Okoro Christian (17), Goodluck Michael (25), Amuche Michael (24), Ojukwu Divine (26), Ikechukwu Chimeremeze (20), Obinna Ike (30), Nnamdi Desmond (28), Odibendi (20), Emmanuel Onyema (26), Omalico Eric (23), Duru Ifeanyi (23), Diamond Zikora (26), Charles Chukwuma (28), Ikem Vincent (20), Okeke Chibuzo (23), and Izunna Okoye (24).
Preliminary interrogation of the suspects allegedly revealed their affiliation with the Vikings Confraternity, also known as “Bagger.” The investigation is also extending to allegations of unlawful and immoral activities reportedly carried out at the location. Ikenga reiterated the Commissioner of Police’s commitment to stamp out cultism, drug abuse, and all forms of criminality or acts capable of undermining public peace and societal values in the state. He added that the command has commenced a full-scale investigation to ascertain the extent of the suspects' involvement in cult-related activities and other possible criminal offenses.
