Police redeploy DPO for ‘aiding escape of notorious rapist’ in Imo

The Imo police command has redeployed Udom Godwin, the divisional police officer (DPO) of Orji headquarters, over his alleged involvement in the escape of a rape suspect. 

A statement on Tuesday by Henry Okoye, the Imo command spokesperson, said the DPO allegedly aided and abetted escape of suspects involved in the rape of a 20-year-old girl. 

Godwin was redeployed to the command headquarters in Owerri.

Okoye said Aboki Danjuma, the commissioner of police in the state, also ordered the query of all other officers linked to the case for “serious dereliction of duty”.

The spokesperson disclosed that the police commissioner assigned the deputy commissioner of police in charge of state criminal investigations to carry out a comprehensive probe and ensure that the suspected rapist is brought to book. 

“The state commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma has ordered the immediate redeployment of the DPO in charge of Orji Divisional Headquarters, Owerri-north LGA of Imo state to the Command Headquarters, Owerri,” the statement reads. 

“The DPO was alleged to have aided the escape of a notorious rapist, Ihee Andrewa from Ahiazu-Mbaise LGA, who has been in detention at the Division.

“Meanwhile, the CP has mandated the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (DCSCIID) to carry out a comprehensive investigation and make sure that the suspects involved in the alleged case of raping a 20-yr-old lady in Orji are all arrested and made to face the full wrath of the law. 

“More so, the DPO and other officers involved in the case have been subjected to investigation and will be sanctioned appropriately if found complicit.

“The command appreciates the concerns of the general public and assures them that the victim will get the justice that she deserves in this case. We say no to rape, sexual abuse and other gender-related crimes. 

“Further development on this case will be communicated to members of the public.”

The commissioner directed Seedy Chima, a chief superintendent of police, to replace Godwin as DPO of the Orji division.