The Federal Government yesterday issued a query to Inspector General of Police Hafiz Ringim, asking him to explain within 24 hours how a key Boko Haram suspect escaped from custody, Police Affairs Minister Caleb Olubolade said.
Ringim on Tuesday suspended Police commissioner Zakari Biu, who was in charge of investigating the suspect who escaped during transfer.
Yesterday, the Police Affairs minister announced that Ringim’s job too was on the line because he was the overall officer in charge.
“If he is found guilty of complicity, he himself will have to account for his mistakes,” Olubolade told journalists.
Kabiru’s escape has brought Ringim under renewed pressure just weeks before he is due to retire from the police force.
When State House reporters asked if it was true that the IG was queried to explain the escape within 24 hours, Olubolade said, “That is true because he is the field officer; he has the responsibility to ensure all operations regarding arrest and all that are conducted in the usual manner.”
“I have directed the IG to carry out full investigation and even at higher level, above that one, there will be another investigation to ascertain what led to the suspect’s escape,” Olubolade said, adding:
“I have also directed that the officers involved and the personnel involved should be detained immediately.”