The Rivers State Police Command has defended a 10-day detention of a suspect, Mr. Clement Johnson, stating that the action was carried out in accordance with the law and backed by a valid court order.

The Command was responding to a report by an Abuja-based online publication which questioned the legality of Johnson’s detention over an alleged theft involving goods valued at ?43 million.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, on Monday, the police maintained that the detention was lawful and executed pursuant to a court order obtained under Section 296 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

According to the statement, the duration of the suspect’s detention falls within the statutory limit prescribed by law, stressing that due process was strictly followed in handling the case.

Agabe stated, “The attention of the Command has been drawn to a publication by an online newspaper based in Abuja regarding the detention of one Mr. Clement Johnson for a period of ten (10) days who was involved in a case of stealing of goods valued 43million naira.

“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the detention in question is lawful, as it was effected pursuant to a valid court order. By virtue of Section 296 of the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

“The detention of Mr. Johnson clearly falls within the statutory limit and is in full compliance with the provisions of the law.”

Speaking further, Agabe disclosed that in line with the Command’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and adherence to the rule of law, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, has mandated a detailed review of the case.

She added that the Commissioner has also directed that the suspect be released or arraigned in court without delay, while investigations continue to ensure proper prosecution in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, in keeping with the Command’s commitment to transparency, accountability and the rule of law, the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, psc, mnips, has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the matter and release of the suspect or be charged to court without further delay, while investigation continues to ensure diligent prosecution of the case in accordance with the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA).” (Daily Independent)