From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
The Kebbi State Police Command has detained three officers following the death of a suspect, Abubakar Auwal, in custody in Jega town. The command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, confirmed this in a press statement released to the media.
Abubakar Auwal was arrested on April 15 at Jega Divisional Police Headquarters for allegedly stealing trailer truck rims. On April 16 at 06:00, he collapsed in detention and was rushed to Jega General Hospital, where he died at 22:00.
Suspecting foul play, Commissioner of Police Bello M. Sani ordered the case’s transfer to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a thorough probe.
“In view of the above, foul play surrounding the circumstances of the death of Abubakar Auwal was suspected. Hence, the Commissioner of Police, Kebbi State Command, CP Bello M Sani directed the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a discreet investigation, during which three Officers were found culpable and are currently detained at the SCID for further investigation and disciplinary action, while the DPO has been queried and transferred with immediate effect,” the statement read.
The detained officers face further investigation and disciplinary action, while the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) has been queried and transferred.
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) reaffirmed its commitment to ethical standards, stating, “The wrong actions of few Officers do not reflect the values of the Nigeria Police Force, prompt and disciplinary measures are always taken against the erring Officers to ensure accountability and justice.”
The NPF vowed to maintain discipline and public trust through transparent investigations.