The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state, as efforts intensify to apprehend the fleeing gang leader and other members of the criminal network.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement, noting that the suspects, all males, include the alleged chief priest of a shrine, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, also known as “Ugoebenajah,” aged 27. Others are Nwabunne Bright, 27; Chinecherem Chiama, 21; and Michael Ekwunife, 38.
According to the Command, operatives also recovered two pump-action guns, one locally made Beretta pistol, a machete, assorted criminal charms, expanded ammunition, ten live cartridges, and five rounds of 9mm ammunition from the suspects at Nando community in Anambra East Local Government Area.
The arrests followed confessions made by two earlier suspects currently in custody. Acting on the information, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu mobilised to a shrine identified as a hideout for the criminal gang on February 13, 2026.
Police said that upon arrival at the location, about 30 able-bodied men were sighted gathered within the premises. However, the suspects allegedly opened fire on the operatives, leading to a gun duel.
The police operatives reportedly responded professionally and overpowered the armed men. During the exchange, the prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, escaped with other gang members, some of whom were believed to have sustained bullet injuries.
One of the arrested suspects also sustained a gunshot wound to the thigh and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The Command said the arrested suspects are undergoing interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing gang members.
The police reiterated their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and urged members of the public to provide useful information that could aid ongoing investigations.
The Command added that further developments would be communicated as the investigation progresses.
