Police detain officer over escape of rape suspect in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has detained a police officer attached to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, over the alleged escape of a rape suspect during an investigation.

The officer, ASP Ekawhe Thomas, was also issued a formal query following a preliminary review of the incident.

The suspect, identified simply as Goodnews, is accused of sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl in Rumukwurushi, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.

According to reports, the suspect escaped while being taken to the scene of the alleged crime by an Investigating Police Officer from the SCID, Port Harcourt, as part of ongoing investigations.

The victim’s father, Prince, explained that he had briefly left the scene to obtain a hammer that would be used to force open the suspect’s apartment after the suspect allegedly refused to unlock the door.

He said he was stunned on his return when the Investigating Police Officer informed him that the suspect had fled.

Prince added that he immediately pursued the direction the officer claimed the suspect had taken but was unable to locate him.

In a statement issued on Friday, the command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, said efforts were underway to re-arrest the suspect, while a comprehensive investigation had been launched to ensure justice is served.

The statement also quoted the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, as expressing displeasure over the incident.

The police commissioner reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to professionalism, discipline, accountability, and the rule of law.

CP Adepoju warned that the command would not tolerate misconduct, negligence, or abuse of office by any personnel, stressing that any officer found culpable after investigations would face appropriate disciplinary measures in line with existing laws and police regulations.

He said, “The Command assures members of the public of its commitment to transparency, justice, and the protection of citizens’ rights at all times.”