The Ebonyi State Police Command has apprehended the suspected mastermind behind the abduction and murder of the traditional ruler of Ndufu Alike Ikwo, the late Ezeogo Francis Igwe, bringing a major breakthrough in the high-profile case.
The suspect, identified as Nwazunku Stephen, was arrested following sustained intelligence gathering and surveillance operations by police operatives. His capture marks a significant development in the investigation that has gripped the community since the monarch's tragic death.
Igwe was abducted last Sunday while on his way to church and was later killed by his captors after they demanded a ransom. The incident sent shockwaves through Ebonyi State and sparked widespread condemnation from traditional rulers and government officials.
Confirming the development, Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Joshua Ukandu, issued a statement on Tuesday detailing the series of operations that led to the breakthrough.
According to Ukandu, one of nine suspects earlier arrested in connection with the incident led operatives from the command's Anti-Kidnapping Squad to a hideout where arms and other incriminating items were recovered.
"During a search of the location, officers recovered one SMG rifle, one pump-action rifle, three locally made Beretta pistols, eleven rounds of 9mm live ammunition, ten live cartridges, a machete, a shovel, and assorted charms," the statement read.
The arrest of the alleged mastermind followed on March 8, 2026. "Operatives arrested one of the suspects and the alleged mastermind of the kidnapping and murder of the monarch, identified as Nwazunku Stephen, at his hideout in Ikwo after sustained surveillance and intelligence-led operations," Ukandu added.
The police spokesperson revealed that Stephen has since provided useful information and is currently assisting the command in the ongoing investigation. Authorities have assured the public that all those connected to the crime will be apprehended and brought to justice.
"The Command assures the public that investigations are ongoing and all those connected to the crime will be apprehended and brought to justice," Ukandu stated.
This latest development comes days after police announced the arrest of two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping syndicate. Those suspects had confessed that the monarch was killed on March 2 and volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout to assist in recovering the monarch's remains.
The late Ezeogo Francis Igwe's killing has drawn condemnation from across Nigeria, with traditional rulers and government officials calling for swift justice. The community of Ndufu Alike Ikwo has been in mourning since the incident, with residents expressing hope that the arrests will lead to closure and justice for their slain monarch.
#EbonyiState #MonarchKilling #PoliceArrest #EzeogoIgwe #Kidnapping #NigeriaPolice #Justice #BreakingNews
Post a Comment