The Anambra State Police Command has opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of an 80-year-old man, Paul Onwualu, following a controversial arrest operation linked to a traditional leadership dispute in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, preliminary findings indicate that the officers allegedly involved in the incident have been identified.
However, the Command clarified that the operatives are not attached to the Anambra State Police Command.
The police described the incident as unfortunate and assured the public that a thorough and professional investigation is underway to uncover the facts.
“The Command is committed to ensuring that justice is served. We urge residents to remain calm as we diligently investigate the matter,” the statement noted.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has directed that the case be handled with utmost professionalism, with a promise that the outcome of the investigation will be made public.
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Meanwhile, family members and eyewitnesses have alleged that the deceased, who was reportedly a contender for the Igweship stool in his community, was assaulted during an attempted arrest at his residence.
Sources claim that the operation was carried out by officers allegedly accompanied by individuals opposed to his ambition in the ongoing chieftaincy tussle, which is currently before a High Court in Ogidi.
An eyewitness recounted that the elderly man was beaten during the operation and later collapsed while being transported to the police station. He was subsequently rushed to a nearby hospital in Ogidi, where he was confirmed dead.
The deceased’s wife also alleged that her husband was forcefully taken from their home by the officers and their accomplices, who she claimed were rivals in the traditional stool dispute.
The incident has sparked concern among residents, with calls for transparency and accountability as the investigation continues.
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