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From Victor Edozie, in Port Harcourt
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju has
said that three Police officers involved in the killing of University of Port Harcourt graduate, Anthony Obodo, have been dismissed from the force.
The victim who was waiting for his NYSC call up letter was shot dead last week Thursday at the popular Ada George road in Port Harcourt by the dismissed Police Officers.
Olugbenga Adepoju in a Press briefing in Port Harcourt on Wednesday said the Police Officers were dismissed following the conclusion of the investigation and the establishment of the culpability of the officers involved.
Olugbenga Adepoju said the affected Police Officers were tried in orderly room with the other Officer at large and recommended for dismissal from the Nigeria Police Force.
The Police Commissioner said the affected officers will subsequently be charged to court to face the appropriate criminal charges in accordance with the law.
He said the action taken against the affected officers demonstrates that the Nigeria Police Force will not shield personnel who abuse the powers entrusted to them or act contrary to the law and professional standards of the Force.
He said, “I am here to provide updates on some serious incidents recently recorded in the state, including the investigation into the death of one Anthony A. Obodo ‘Male’ a student, following a police pursuit and unfortunate shooting incident, as well as the arrest of suspected members of a one-chance robbery syndicate operating within Port Harcourt and its environs.
“Let me state clearly that the Rivers State Police Command places high premium on professionalism, accountability, respect for human rights and the protection of lives and property.
“Where allegations of misconduct or criminality are made against police personnel, we will not shield any officer found to have acted outside the law under my watch.
“The patrol team consequently gave a chase to the deceased and During the pursuit, Corpal Alfred Louis, who is attached to the patrol team, opened fire at the vehicle and bullet hit the driver identified as Anthony A. Obodo.”M” who sustained gunshot injury.
“The victim was immediately rushed to Palmer’s Hospital, Port Harcourt, where he was attended to and subsequently confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
“The Three members of the patrol team were immediately arrested and detained at the State Criminal Investigation where a Department (SCID), Port-Harcourt, comprehensive investigation into the case was carried out.”
Adepoju said efforts were intensified to locate and arrest Inspector Solomon Nwrogu, who reportedly absconded following the incident.
