Three police officers accused of killing seven traders at the Owode-Onirin Motor Spare Parts Market in Lagos State have been released by authorities, Saturday PUNCH has gathered.The officers, reportedly attached to the Nasarawa Police Command, were earlier detained following public outrage over the killings, which occurred during a controversial operation at the popular market.
Sources close to the investigation said the policemen were quietly freed after internal inquiries, raising suspicions of a cover-up. Families of the slain traders have accused the police of shielding their own, demanding justice and transparency in the case.
Human rights groups have also condemned the development, describing it as another example of impunity within the Nigerian police system.Police spokespersons in both Lagos and Nasarawa states have yet to issue official statements regarding the release as of press time.