Shock as 2 suspects linked to Anambra lawmaker’s murder escape from police custody

The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that two suspects linked to the kidnapping and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a state House of Assembly member, have escaped from custody.

Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, the Police Public Relations Officer, disclosed the shocking development in a statement released on Tuesday night, raising concerns over security lapses in handling high-profile criminal cases.

Hon. Azuka, who represented Onitsha 1 Constituency, was abducted by gunmen on December 24, 2024. His decomposing body was discovered weeks later, on February 6, under the Second Niger Bridge in Onitsha, following an intense search by security operatives.

Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of nine suspects connected to the crime. However, during a follow-up operation to apprehend a suspected buyer of stolen vehicles linked to the gang, two of the suspects managed to escape. While the suspected receiver was arrested and two vehicles were recovered, the escape of the key suspects has sparked outrage.

In response, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has ordered an extensive manhunt, deploying human, operational, and intelligence resources to track down the fugitives. He assured the public that the escapees would be rearrested and that justice would prevail.

The police boss also warned that any officers found culpable in the suspects’ escape would face disciplinary action. Meanwhile, the public remains on edge, demanding swift action to ensure that those responsible for the lawmaker’s gruesome murder are held accountable.