By DESMOND EJIBAS

The Police Command in Rivers has begun disciplinary proceedings on an officer ASP Ekawhe Thomas, over alleged negligence that led to a suspect’s escape from detention.

The spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, told journalists in Port Harcourt that the officer was attached to the Criminal Investigation Department.

Agabe said that following the suspect’s escape, the police leadership ordered immediate disciplinary action against Thomas.

“The officer has been detained and formally issued a query in line with existing disciplinary procedures of the police force,” she said.

She said that efforts were ongoing to re-apprehend the fleeing suspect while investigations into the incident continued.

The spokesperson said the Commissioner of Police in Rivers, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, had expressed displeasure over the development, and reaffirmed the command’s commitment to professionalism, discipline and accountability.

Agabe said Adepoju had warned that the command would not tolerate misconduct, negligence, or abuse of office by any personnel.

“Any officer found culpable after investigation would be sanctioned in accordance with extant laws and disciplinary regulations,” she said.

She assured members of the public that the command’s was fully committed to transparency, justice and the protection of citizens’ rights. (Text, excluding headline: NAN)