Abba Kyari: Police declare ASP Umoru wanted, task NDLEA to produce drug-dealing officers

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has declared ASP John Umoru wanted while tasking the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to produce its personnel who collaborated with suspended DCP Abba Kyari in a cocaine deal.

Usman Baba, the Inspector General, made the demand after turning over accused personnel to the anti-narcotics agency.

On Monday, CSP Muyiwa Adejobi, the Force Public Relations Officer, released a statement on his behalf.

Baba claimed that an internal inquiry found reasonable grounds to suspect that IRT officers were involved in certain shady and unprofessional practices and corruption.

The IGP noted that their actions compromised ethical standards in their dealings with the suspects and exhibits recovered.

The police said the international narcotics cartel under probe have strong ties with some NDLEA officers at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu, and “are on their payroll”.

“The two arrested drug couriers confirmed that the modus is for the transnational drug barons to conspire with the NDLEA officers on duty and send them their pre-boarding photographs for identification, seamless clearance, and unhindered passage out of the airport with the narcotics being trafficked.

“The two arrested drug couriers also confirmed that they have been enjoying this relationship with the NDLEA officers at the Akanu Ibiam International Airport since 2021.”

Baba said they had, in the case of 19th January 2022, been identified and cleared by the NDLEA officers as customary, having received their pre-departure photographs and other details prior to their arrival in Enugu.

“They were on their way out with the narcotics when they were apprehended by the Police”, the statement noted.

“The concerned officers include DCP Abba Kyari, ACP Sunday Ubuah, ASP Bawa James, ASP John Umoru (at large), Inspr. Simon Agrigba and John Nuhu. They have all been, accordingly, handed over today 14th February 2022 to the NDLEA authorities.”

The IGP assured of his administration’s commitment to upholding ethical regeneration, restoration of professional standards, enhancement of the anti-corruption drive and respect for the rule of law.