Police nabs ASP over killing of handcuffed suspect in Delta

The Delta State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of Usman Nuhu, an Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), over the killing of a 28-year-old suspect in Effurun, Delta State.

The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has sparked outrage following the circulation of a disturbing video on social media.

In the trending footage, the suspect—whose identity has not yet been officially disclosed—was seen sitting on the ground with his hands tied behind his back with a rope. The video, which lasts less than two minutes, shows the restrained individual being shot at close range by a police officer dressed in mufti.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Bright Edafe, police spokesperson in Delta, said the officer has been transferred to the force headquarters in Abuja for disciplinary proceedings.

Anthony Placid, the force public relations officer, who also confirmed the development, said the suspect, identified as Mene Ogidi, was killed after being apprehended while attempting to waybill a parcel allegedly containing a pistol loaded with four rounds of ammunition.

“Preliminary reports indicate that operatives attached to the Effurun Area Command responded to credible information from Benin Motor Park along the Warri–Sapele Expressway regarding a suspect apprehended by members of a transport union while attempting to waybill a parcel containing a Beretta pistol with four rounds of ammunition,” Placid said.

“While efforts were being made to take the suspect into lawful custody, the team leader, ASP Nuhu Usman, discharged his firearm in clear violation of extant regulations, resulting in the death of the suspect.”

Placid added that the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has ordered the immediate transfer of the officer and his team to Abuja, where they will face the force disciplinary committee for summary disciplinary measures and possible prosecution.

“The Inspector-General of Police extends his condolences to the family of the deceased and assures them that justice will be served in accordance with the law,” he added.

“He further urges members of the public to remain calm and law-abiding as the disciplinary and legal processes take their course.

“The Nigeria Police Force maintains a zero-tolerance stance on extra-judicial actions, abuse of authority, and any conduct that undermines public trust.”