The Kebbi Police Command has detained three police officers for the alleged murder of a suspect arrested for stealing.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Nafi’u Abubakar, made this known in a statement on Saturday.

“On April 15, based on a complaint of stolen rims of a trailer truck reported at the Divisional Police Headquarters, Jega, one Abubakar Auwal was arrested in connection with the case.

“On April 16, at about 6:00 a.m., while the investigation was ongoing, the suspect collapsed in detention.

“He was rushed to the general hospital, Jega, for treatment but died on the same date at about 10:p.m,” he said.

Mr Abubakar added that based on the development, the police commissioner, Bello Sani, directed the case to be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a discreet investigation.

He said three officers were found culpable and are currently detained at the SCID for further investigation, while the divisional police officer in the area has been queried and transferred with immediate effect.

Mr Abubakar reiterated the force’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism in discharging its duties.

“The wrong actions of a few officers do not reflect the values of the Nigeria Police Force; prompt and disciplinary measures are always taken against erring officers to ensure accountability and justice.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains dedicated to maintaining discipline, protecting the integrity of its operations and fostering the trust and confidence of the people it serves,” the spokesman said.

(NAN)