The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Usman Baba has suspended embattled Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Abba Kyari.
Mr Kyari was implicated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a fraudulent deal executed by internet fraudster, Ramon Abbas, popularly known as Hushpuppi.
In reaction to his indictment on Wednesday, Mr Kyari who admitted knowing the fraudster claimed he is innocent despite the FBI publishing the conversation between him and Hushpuppi who has already pleaded guilty.
On Thursday, Mr Baba ordered an internal investigation but in a statement dated July 31 with Ref No. CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.4/26, he suspended the embattled top cop.
Force spokesman, Frank Mba, said the suspension is in line with the interdisciplinary processes of the force.
“The IGP further noted that the suspension is also expected to create an enabling environment for the NPF Special Investigation Panel to carry out its investigations into the weighty allegations against DCP Abba Kyari without interference,” Mr Mba said. “The suspension is without prejudice to the constitutional presumption of innocence in favour of the officer.”
According to Mr Mba, a Special Investigation Panel (SIP) comprising four senior police officers, to be chaired by the Deputy Inspector General of Police in-charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID), Joseph Egbunike, has been set up to investigate the allegations levelled against the supercop.
“The SIP, inter alia, is to undertake a detailed review of all the allegations against DCP Abba Kyari by the US Government as contained in relevant documents that have been availed of the NPF by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
“The SIP is also to obtain detailed representation of DCP Abba Kyari to all the allegations levelled against him, conduct further investigations as it deems fit, and submit recommendations to guide further actions by the Force Leadership on the matter,” he added.
