The Delta State Police Command has responded to allegations circulating on social media that officers of its Rapid Response Squad (RRS) tortured one Mr Paul Obukohwo to death.
The command has denied these claims, stating that Obukohwo fell ill while in custody and later died in hospital.
According to a statement released by the command, Obukohwo was arrested on 26 March, at approximately 3:45 pm, following a raid on a known black spot along Okpanam Road.
During the operation, officers apprehended one Prosper Odili, 24, who was allegedly wearing military camouflage, while other suspects managed to escape.
The police claim that Obukohwo attempted to obstruct the arrest of Odili and, in the process, damaged a police patrol vehicle.
While in custody, Obukohwo reportedly fell ill and was taken to the Police Hospital in Asaba, where he was diagnosed with hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar).
Due to the severity of his condition, he was transferred to Asaba Specialist Hospital and later to the Federal Medical Centre in Asaba, where he died while receiving treatment.
The police acknowledged the concerns raised by Obukohwo’s family and social media users, who have alleged that he was tortured in custody.
In response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to conduct a thorough inquiry into the matter.
“The command is not oblivious to the complaints emanating from social media and the brother of the deceased alleging that the police tortured him while in custody,” the statement read.
“For this reason, and to avoid doubt, the Commissioner of Police has ordered a full investigation.”
The police have called on members of Obukohwo’s family to visit the command headquarters to facilitate the investigation.
While extending his condolences to the bereaved family, CP Abaniwonda assured the public that “no stone will be left unturned” and that any officer found culpable would “face the full wrath of the law.”
The investigation remains ongoing, he said.
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