Emma Elekwa
A police officer has been detained over death of a 3-month-old baby in Okija in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra state.
The officer was said to have been invited by a landlord in the area over a dispute with his tenant who was reportedly absent when the officer arrived.
CoreTruth learnt that the officer, in the course of the intervention, attempted to slap a relative of the tenant reportedly carrying the baby.
He was however said to have missed the target and struck the baby instead which resulted to its death.
Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said the officer involved is currently undergoing interrogation and other administrative procedures in line with the Nigeria Police Force disciplinary processes.
Ikenga added that full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident had been launched to ensure justice was served.
He said, “Anambra State Police Command confirms that the Police Officer allegedly connected with the unfortunate incident that resulted in the death of a three-month old baby at Okija has been identified and taken into custody.
Investigation on-going
“The Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident to ascertain the facts and ensure that justice is served.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu while expressing deep regret over the unfortunate development, commiserates with the family of the deceased child and assures the public that the Command will remain transparent and professional in handling the matter.
“The officer involved is currently undergoing interrogation and other administrative procedures in line with the Nigeria Police Force disciplinary processes.
“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm and avoid actions capable of inciting tension, while assuring that no individual found culpable will be shielded from justice.
“Further developments on the outcome of the investigation will be communicated accordingly.”
