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The Delta State Police Command has arrested and transferred an officer allegedly responsible for the fatal shooting of a 28-year-old man, Mene Ogidi, in Effurun, assuring the public that justice will be served.
The incident, which occurred on April 26, has drawn public concern after reports emerged that the deceased was shot while being taken into police custody.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, operatives attached to Area Command Effurun had responded to credible intelligence from members of the public that Mene Ogidi was apprehended while allegedly attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol and four rounds of ammunition.
Police officers were subsequently deployed to the scene to take the suspect into custody. However, the officer leading the team, ASP Nuhu Usman, allegedly discharged his firearm in violation of Force Order 237 and the Standard Operating Procedure of the Nigeria Police Force, resulting in the death of the suspect.
Reacting swiftly, the Commissioner of Police, Delta State Command, CP Yemi Oyeniyi, ordered the immediate arrest of the officer and his transfer to the State Headquarters in Asaba for disciplinary procedures.
“The officer has since been queried and transferred to Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he will appear before the Force Disciplinary Committee currently in session for immediate disciplinary sanction and prosecution,” the statement said.
The Command stressed its commitment to professionalism, accountability, human rights and the rule of law, while condemning all forms of extra-judicial actions.
“The Command further reaffirms its zero tolerance for lawlessness, recklessness and extra-judicial conduct,” the police stated.
CP Oyeniyi also extended condolences to the family of the deceased and assured them that the matter would be handled transparently.
He appealed to residents to remain calm and law-abiding, noting that all necessary steps were being taken to ensure justice is served.
