IG orders fresh probe into suspect’s death in custody

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has ordered a fresh investigation into the controversy surrounding the death of a suspect, Erasmus Emhenya.

Emhenya was said to have died in police custody at the Nyanya Divisional Headquarters in Abuja on April 10, 2023.

Emhenya’s mother, whose recent interview on Human Rights Radio in Abuja went viral last week, accused the police of torturing her son to death while he was in custody.

She said that when she went to deliver food to her son, she was told she couldn’t see him because he was very tired.

The woman added that a suspect who shared the same cell with her son told her that the police beat her son the previous day, which led to his death.

She also claimed that the police assaulted her when she demanded an explanation for her son’s death.

However, the Force Headquarters and the FCT police command had both denied the allegations.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Force Spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, said the IG was concerned about the incident and has directed the DIG FCID to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and forward the report as soon as possible.

Adejobi said, “The IG has been apprised of the controversy surrounding the death of a young man named “Erasmus Emhenya” who allegedly died in police custody at the Nyanya Divisional Police Headquarters, FCT on April 10, 2023, and has thereby ordered a fresh investigation to unravel the cause of death and ensure the prevalence of justice.

“The Inspector-General of Police, who has expressed his grave concern over the incident, has further directed the DIG FCID to immediately commence a thorough and transparent investigation into the matter and forward the report as soon as possible. “

Adejobi added that the IG urged Nigerians to support the police on the matter, adding the police under him would strengthen the respect for human rights.

He said, “The IGP therefore calls for calm and support from members of the public on the matter while assuring that the police will continually uphold and protect people’s human rights in their day-to-day activities. He equally reassures the public of the Police’s commitment to sustaining its internal control mechanism to deal decisively and sanction any erring police personnel who engage in unprofessional conduct.

“The IGP hereby commiserates with the family of the deceased and prays for the repose of his soul.”