The Rivers State Police Command has commenced disciplinary proceedings against an officer, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Ekawhe Thomas, following an alleged case of negligence that led to the escape of a suspect from lawful detention.
Police spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, confirmed the development on Sunday in Port Harcourt while briefing journalists on the incident.
She said the officer, who is attached to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), was immediately detained after the escape was discovered, in line with internal disciplinary procedures.
According to her, the command also issued a formal query to the officer as part of ongoing administrative and investigative processes.
“The officer has been detained and formally issued a query in line with existing disciplinary procedures of the police force,” she said.
Agabe stated that efforts had already been intensified to re-arrest the fleeing suspect, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the escape were still ongoing.
She added that the Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, had expressed strong dissatisfaction over the incident and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism and accountability.
According to her, the Commissioner warned that the police would not tolerate negligence, misconduct or abuse of office by any personnel under the command.
“Any officer found culpable after investigation would be sanctioned in accordance with extant laws and disciplinary regulations,” she said.
Agabe further assured members of the public that the command remained committed to transparency, justice, and the protection of citizens’ rights while investigations continue into the incident.
