Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) in charge of Zone 9 Command, Umuahia, Kanayo Uzuegbu, has warned against any actions capable of obstructing investigations into the alleged theft of an electricity transformer belonging to Azumini Community in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State.
The warning follows growing tension in the community arising from the vandalisation of the transformer, which has resulted in a total blackout and disrupted social and economic activities in the area.
A community source alleged that the suspects unlawfully removed the transformer and later sold it as scrap, plunging the entire community into darkness.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer (ZPPRO), SP Bruno Iheanetu, disclosed that the AIG had ordered a comprehensive and impartial investigation into the matter.
According to the statement, AIG Uzuegbu urged all parties involved to remain calm and refrain from actions capable of jeopardising the investigation, assuring that the police would uncover the truth and ensure justice is served.
“The AIG has clarified that the matter is currently under thorough investigation with a view to ascertaining the true facts and ensuring justice for all parties concerned,” the statement read.
“He advises all individuals and groups involved to remain calm and refrain from actions that may prejudice the investigation, pending its conclusion,” it added.
The statement further revealed that the AIG expressed the command’s readiness to explore Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms, subject to the consent of all parties, as a means of achieving an amicable and lasting resolution of the dispute.
The Zone 9 Police Command also reassured members of the public of its unwavering commitment to professionalism, fairness, and peaceful conflict resolution, in line with the constitutional mandate of the Nigeria Police Force.
The police urged residents to cooperate fully with investigators and provide any useful information that could aid the probe, stressing that the law would be allowed to take its full course.
