The Rivers State Police Command has detained an officer over the escape of a rape suspect during an investigation in Port Harcourt.
ASP Ekawhe Thomas, attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, was taken into custody and issued a formal query after a preliminary review of the incident.
The suspect, identified only as Goodnews, is accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in Rumukwurushi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
According to the police, the suspect escaped while being taken to the scene of the alleged crime by the investigating officer as part of ongoing inquiries.
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The victim’s father said he had stepped away briefly to get a tool to force open the suspect’s apartment after the suspect refused to unlock the door. On his return, he was told the suspect had fled, and efforts to locate him were unsuccessful.
Police spokesperson ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo said efforts are underway to re-arrest the suspect, and a full investigation has been launched to ensure justice is served.
Commissioner of Police Olugbenga Adepoju expressed displeasure over the incident and warned that the command would not tolerate misconduct or negligence.
He reaffirmed the force’s commitment to professionalism, accountability, and the rule of law, adding that any officer found culpable would face disciplinary action.
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