Deji Adebayo, Abuja

In reaction to the face-off between internet fraudster Hushpuppi  and DCP Abba Kyari, the Inspector-General of Police, Usman Baba had recommended immediate suspension of DCP Abba Kyari from the Nigeria Police Force pending outcome of an ongoing internal investigation involving him.

Kyari, who is the Head of Intelligence Response Team of the Nigeria Police, was indicted by a US Court in California over alleged involvement in internet fraud of over $1.1million by Ramoni Abba aka Hushpuppi.

Kyari has since denied any involvement in the internet fraud case which victim was said to be a Qatari businessman.

But the IGP, in a letter to the Police Service Commission, dated 31st July 2021, noted that his recommendation for the suspension of the officer is in line with the internal disciplinary processes of the Force.

The letter reads; “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.

 “The suspension is without prejudice to the constitutional presumption of innocence in favour of the officer.

“The suspension is without prejudice to the constitutional presumption of innocence in favour of the officer.”

Likewise, a four- man panel of Senior Police officers has been set up by the IGP to investigate the FBI’s indictment. The panel is expected to thoroughly review documents sent to the Police Force by the FBI.

Also a statement by CP Frank Mba, Force Public Relations Officer said; “The Special Investigation Panel (SIP), comprising four (4) Senior Police Officers, is headed by DIG Joseph Egbunike, the Deputy Inspector General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigations Department (FCID).

“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 the NPF by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

“The SIP is also to obtain a 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.”