A High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday, sentenced a dismissed policeman, James Imhalu, to death by hanging for the murder of a commercial driver in 2015, over his refusal to pay him a N100 bribe.
In her ruling, Justice Elsie Thompson stated that evidence presented to the court demonstrated that the dismissed sergeant purposefully fired a shot at the commercial motorist, Legbara David, at Whimpey crossroads in Port Harcourt.
Justice Thompson described Imhalu as a serial trigger-happy policeman that should not be allowed to remain in the society.
Kingsley Briggs, a member of the prosecution team’s legal team, stated that the verdict would provide comfort to the deceased’s relatives.
“We thank God that today judgement has been given. Although the will of justice grinds slowly, but surely justice will come.
“For the family of those that lost their loved one and their breadwinner, it is quite unfortunate, But, I believe this judgement will serve as a succour to the family.
“He will be taken to the correctional centre and then to His Excellency. If His Excellency signs and gives the order, he will be executed accordingly,” he stated.
On his part, a representative of the legal aid council in Rivers State, who defended the sergeant, Mr Awaji, said they would study the judgement to know the next line of action.
“We came into the matter at the point of defense. The state has called all the numerous witnesses. Today’s judgement, I will say, is justice for the people of Rivers State.
“Despite the fact that I represented the defendant, my analysis of the case when I came into the matter, I would say, I saw it coming.
“Having listened to the judgement, currently there is no plan to go on appeal. But by the time we look at the judgement in-depth. perhaps we will be able to find grounds for appeal.
“But as it is, there is no plan to go on appeal,” Awaji stated.
