Police Deny Torturing Female Suspect in Abia Amid Vandalism Investigation

Police Deny Torturing Female Suspect in Abia Amid Vandalism Investigation

The Abia State Police Command has firmly denied allegations of framing, torturing, and denying bail to Tochi Ireokwu, a suspended Deputy Director of Logistics and Supply at the Abia State Homeland Security Service, following her arrest on April 4, 2026. In a statement issued by DSP Maureen Chinaka, the Police Public Relations Officer, the command dismissed the online claims as false and misleading, asserting that the arrest was based on credible intelligence and lawful procedures. The police emphasized that Ireokwu and three other suspects were apprehended for allegedly engaging in economic sabotage, vandalism, theft, conspiracy, and aiding and abetting criminal activities.

According to the police, Ireokwu, accompanied by her assistant—one of the other suspects—visited a government property under the pretense of inspecting and taking inventory to enhance security. During the visit, she deceitfully obtained a set of keys from the Chief Security Officer (CSO) of the premises, which housed valuable equipment. After completing her inspection, she returned the majority of the keys but retained some, which were later used to access restricted areas. The police stated that this act was part of a premeditated plan to facilitate the theft of critical assets.

The suspects were later caught in the act of vandalizing the property and loading stolen items into a wine-red Toyota Sienna without a visible number plate. Among the stolen goods were electrical armoured cables, wires, electronic motors, engine cylinders, half-engine metals, car batteries, and other valuable materials. The arrest was made by operatives from the nearest police division, who acted on actionable intelligence, ensuring the suspects were apprehended on the spot.

The Abia State Police Command confirmed that Ireokwu made a confessional statement after the case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department. The suspects are currently remanded in police custody pending their appearance at the Federal High Court in Umuahia. The police reiterated that all legal procedures are being followed and that the suspects will face justice in court.

The incident has sparked public interest and debate, particularly due to Ireokwu’s position in the state’s security apparatus. However, the police have maintained that no form of torture or unlawful detention was involved. They urged the public to rely on official statements rather than unverified online reports. As the case progresses, the court will determine the full extent of the suspects’ involvement and the appropriate legal consequences. This case underscores the importance of accountability and transparency in public service and law enforcement.