By Brave Dickson
The Rivers State branch of the International Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA,) has hailed a high court, sitting in Lagos for sentencing a suspended Assistant Superintendent of Police, Drambi Vandi to death by hanging.
The suspended police officer was sentenced by Justice Ibironke Harrison for killing a pregnant lawyer, Bolanle Raheem on December 25, 2022, over traffic issues in Lagos.
Bolanle was shot in the chest by the convict police officer, leading to her death that sparked wide condemnation across the country.
Speaking with our correspondent, the Chairperson of FIDA in Rivers State, Adata Bio-Briggs was quoted as saying, “We are very happy about the judgment. We are very happy that the judgment has been seen to be done.
“I also like to advise security agents, especially the police to be more careful in their use of firearms.
“Firearms should not be used, except when encountered with the real criminals. Security agents should not use their firearms to intimidate people on the streets just because of traffic or minor issues.
“This judgment should serve as a deterrent to other arm-bearing officers not to make same mistakes.”
Justice Harrison sentenced the ASP after finding him guilty of the murder of the pregnant lawyer.
The trial justice held that the prosecution could prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt.
The judge also held that the convict shot the deceased at close range.
It was reported that in April, the court dismissed a “no case submission” filed by Vandi.
Justice Harrison ordered the defendant to open his defense since a ‘prima facie’ has been established against him.
