A’Ibom police arrest ASP as prospective corps member dies in custody

Amiengheme Andrew, Akwa Ibom police commissioner, has ordered the arrest of Joweigha Michael, an assistant superintendent of police (ASP), for alleged involvement in the death of Kubiat Isaac, a prospective youth corps member.

Isaac, a graduate of the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom, was said to have been arrested on Sunday, August 29, by the police officers attached to B Division, Ewet Housing Estate.

JUSTICE FOR KUBIAT

I am representing the family of Mr. Kubiat Isaac Akpan (popularly known as Icon), a 28 year old fresh graduate of Architecture from the University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.#JusticeForKubiat#JusticeForKubiat#JusticeForKubiat pic.twitter.com/MZBNy0TlRs

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— Inibehe Effiong (@InibeheEffiong) September 3, 2021

Reacting to the incident, Odiko Macdon, the police public relations officer in Akwa Ibom, said Isaac died in police custody.

“The CP ordered for the immediate arrest and detention for questioning of ASP Joweigha Michael who preliminary investigation revealed was the officer who effected the arrest of the late Isaac,” Macdon said in a statement.

“It is expedient to state that the said late Kubiat Isaac was being investigated for the offence of suspected armed robbery and cultism and had been evading arrest for some time.

“He was traced to and arrested at Eni Stores in Uyo on Aug. 29 and taken in for questioning.

“On arrival at the Division Police Station, the DPO ordered that he be transferred to the State CID where the case was pending for discreet investigation.

“Unfortunately, the suspect said he was sick. He was taken to the police clinic for treatment but gave up the ghost in the process.”

He said that the CP has ordered for an autopsy to be conducted to determine what killed the suspect.

“The CP, who has great respect for fundamental rights, notes that contemporary policing isn’t about torture and should not be tolerated,” the police spokesman said.

Macdon said the CP has assured that a diligent and transparent investigation would be conducted.