The Anambra State Police Command has denied claims that it asked for ₦600,000 from the sister of a wanted suspect to secure her release. They say the woman, Ms Nwosu Chikamso Jennifer, was arrested as part of an investigation into cult-related killings in Awka.
In a statement on Monday, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesman, called the allegations misleading.
Ikenga explained that the need for clarification arose after an online report mentioned a letter from the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre. This letter was signed by the Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma.
He stated that Jennifer was granted bail after promising to help police find her brother. He is still wanted in the ongoing investigation.
The statement said, "The Anambra State Police Command has noted an online publication, following a letter purportedly written by the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre, signed by its Executive Director, Okechukwu Nwanguma, and dated September 5, 2026, concerning the arrest and subsequent release of Ms Nwosu Chikamso Jennifer."
It continued, "The publication alleged that Ms Jennifer was arrested on August 31, 2026, not in connection with any offence allegedly committed by her, but solely in relation to police investigations involving her brother, Nwosu Kenechukwu, who was reportedly wanted in connection with an alleged murder case."
The statement added, "It further alleged that the sum of ₦600,000 was demanded as a condition for her release. The command considers it necessary to clarify the facts and set the record straight."
The police investigation showed that Nwosu Kenechukwu was a person of interest in the cult-related killings in Awka. They found that Jennifer helped him avoid arrest after learning about police efforts to catch him.
"Her arrest was therefore made in the course of a legitimate criminal investigation arising from her alleged conduct, and not merely on account of her relationship with the suspect," the statement said.
The police firmly denied that they demanded ₦600,000 or any payment for Jennifer's release. "At no time did the police demand or impose any financial payment as a condition for her release," it stated.
Jennifer was given bail in line with police procedures after she agreed to assist in locating her brother, who is still wanted.
Ikenga emphasized that the command is committed to the rule of law and protecting the rights of all individuals. He added that this does not stop police from taking action against those suspected of helping suspects evade arrest.
He said the police would not be distracted by unverified stories that could mislead people or affect ongoing investigations.
"Its focus remains on uncovering the circumstances surrounding the cult-related killings under investigation, identifying all persons connected to them, and ensuring that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law," he said.
The police urged media groups, civil society organizations, and the public to verify sensitive claims with the right authorities before publishing them. This is especially important for reports that could mislead the public or harm trust in law enforcement.
The Anambra State Police Command is dedicated to professional and accountable policing, and it will continue to fulfill its duties without fear or distraction," the statement concluded.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇