Two suspects linked to the murder of Anambra lawmaker Justice Azuka have escaped from police custody, authorities confirmed on Tuesday night.
Police spokesperson in Anambra State, Tochukwu Ikenga, revealed that the suspects fled while assisting police operatives in an investigation to apprehend a receiver of stolen vehicles used by the criminal gang.
Gunmen had abducted Mr. Azuka on 24 December 2024, and his decomposing body was discovered by security operatives on 6 February 2025 at the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha. Following investigations, police arrested nine suspects in connection with the crime.
However, during an operation to capture a suspected receiver of stolen vehicles, two of the detained suspects managed to escape. The police successfully arrested the receiver and recovered two stolen vehicles, but the other suspects fled the scene.
Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, has since deployed intelligence and operational teams to track down the escapees. He also ordered an internal disciplinary review for any officers found responsible for their escape.
Mr. Ikenga assured that efforts are ongoing to rearrest the suspects and that any officers found negligent will face disciplinary action.
