By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has announced the arrest of four additional suspects over the gruesome murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state, as operatives intensified manhunt for the alleged gang leader and other fleeing members of the criminal syndicate.
The Police Public Relations Officer of the Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued to newsmen in Awka, explaining that the fresh arrests followed sustained investigations and confessional statements obtained from two earlier suspects already in custody.
According to him, the newly arrested suspects include a 27-year-old alleged shrine chief priest, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel (popularly known as “Ugoebenaja”); Nwabunne Bright (aged 27); Chinecherem Chiama (aged 21); and Michael Ekwunife (aged 38), all males.
The Police Spokesperson also confirmed the recovery of a significant cache of arms and criminal items during the operation carried out in Nando community, Anambra East Local Government Area. According to him, recovered exhibits include two pump-action guns, a locally fabricated Beretta pistol, a machete, assorted charms, expanded ammunition, ten live cartridges and five live 9mm rounds.
SP Ikenga revealed that the breakthrough was recorded on February 13, 2026, when operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, acted on intelligence extracted from the earlier arrested suspects. He said the operatives subsequently mobilised to a shrine in Nando believed to be a hideout linked to the criminal network.
His words: “On approaching the shrine, about thirty able-bodied men were observed gathered at the premises. Upon sighting the Police, the armed men opened fire on the operatives. The Police operatives responded professionally, engaging the armed men in a gun duel.
“While the prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam escaped alongside other gang members with bullet wounds. Also during the gun battle, one of the arrested armed suspects sustained a bullet injury on the thigh and was immediately taken to a hospital where he is currently receiving medical treatment.
“The arrested suspects are currently undergoing interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the criminal gang.
“The Command reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and urges members of the public to continue to provide useful information that will aid ongoing investigations.
“Further developments will be communicated in due course.”
