By Ayo Ayodele
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested at least 12 suspects in connection with the killing of popular comedian and town crier, Isaac Nwosu, popularly known as “Aiza Nwosu,” as well as other cult-related killings in Awka, the state capital.
The command also denied allegations that its officers collected N600,000 to secure the release of Jennifer Nwosu, said to be the sister of one of the suspects.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this on Wednesday during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Awka.
Ikenga said Jennifer’s arrest and subsequent release were connected to the ongoing investigation into the murder, insisting that the police did not demand or collect money for her release.
He challenged anyone with evidence of extortion or corruption against the police to present credible and verifiable proof.
The clarification followed concerns raised by the Rule of Law and Accountability Advocacy Centre (RULAAC) over Jennifer’s reported return to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu amid allegations that N600,000 had earlier been paid for her release.
RULAAC had alleged that Jennifer was arrested on August 31 and detained for four days because the police were searching for her brother, who was reportedly wanted in connection with an alleged murder.
The organisation further claimed that N600,000 was paid on September 3 for her “administrative bail”, but that no receipt was issued. It also alleged that her mobile phone was seized without a seizure form or property receipt.
Responding to the allegations, Ikenga said Jennifer’s detention was part of legitimate police investigations into a cult-related murder in Awka.
He said investigators were examining individuals and circumstances that could help identify the perpetrators and locate the principal suspect who remains at large.
According to him, Jennifer initially denied communicating with the suspect for more than five years when questioned in the presence of her lawyer.
However, investigators allegedly discovered communication between her and the suspect on the night of the incident.
Ikenga said the communication being investigated included information about the victim’s death and an alert allegedly sent to the suspect that the police were closing in on him.
He said Jennifer was later released after offering to assist the police in locating and apprehending the fleeing suspect.
“The Command did not demand or collect N600,000, or any money whatsoever, as a condition for Miss Nwosu’s release,” Ikenga said.
The police spokesman disclosed that 12 suspects had so far been arrested in connection with the killing of Isaac Nwosu and other cult-related killings in Awka.
He said the command would not allow allegations it considered diversionary to distract investigators from the case.
Ikenga also cited relevant provisions of the Criminal Code of Anambra State and the Administration of Criminal Justice Law, saying the police would continue to carry out their investigative duties within the law.
He maintained that Jennifer’s arrest was connected to the ongoing murder investigation and that her release followed her offer to assist investigators in tracking down the principal suspect.
The police spokesman urged individuals and organisations making allegations of extortion, corruption or misconduct against officers to support their claims with credible evidence.
He assured the public that the investigation would be conducted professionally and objectively, with respect for fundamental human rights.
“The Anambra State Police Command will continue to pursue this investigation professionally, objectively and without fear or favour, with the ultimate objective of ensuring that justice is served,” Ikenga said.