Outrage in Kebbi as man dies in police custody, 3 officers detained

In a deeply troubling incident that has raised serious questions about police conduct, the Kebbi State Police Command has confirmed the detention of three officers following the suspicious death of a suspect, Abubakar Auwal, while in custody.

The command’s spokesperson, CSP Nafiu Abubakar, disclosed in a statement released on Saturday that the tragic incident occurred at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Jega. Auwal had been arrested in connection with a case involving stolen trailer truck rims reported on April 15, 2025.

According to the statement, an internal investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding Auwal’s death. The three officers involved have been taken into custody pending the outcome of the inquiry.

Auwal was arrested in connection with the complaint, but tragedy struck the following morning. “While the investigation was ongoing, Auwal reportedly collapsed in custody on April 16 and was immediately rushed to the General Hospital in Jega,” the statement said.

Details surrounding his sudden collapse and death remain unclear, prompting the command to open an internal investigation. As part of this effort, three officers have been detained to determine their potential involvement or negligence.

The case has reignited public discourse on police accountability and the treatment of suspects in detention, with civil rights groups already calling for an independent probe.

The Kebbi State Police Command has assured the public of transparency, pledging that anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.

“He was pronounced dead later that night at approximately 10:00 p.m”

The statement further said the state Commissioner of Police, CP Bello Sani, immediately ordered a discreet investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).

“Preliminary findings led to the detention of three officers believed to be culpable in the incident. In addition, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the affected station has been issued a query and redeployed.

“The Nigeria Police Force reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

“The actions of a few do not represent the values of the Force, and disciplinary measures are being taken to ensure accountability,” the statement added.

However, the police have pledged to continue internal reforms aimed at fostering public trust and ensuring the integrity of their operations.

Meanwhile, the Command has not disclosed the names of the detained officers but confirmed that further investigations are ongoing.