The Nigeria Police Force has announced the death of a suspected gang leader allegedly linked to the killing of the traditional ruler of Ochia in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State, Eze Paulinus Ekwueme.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said the suspect, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, also known as “Acid,” was killed during a gun battle with police operatives.
Iniedu disclosed that the operation was conducted by operatives of the Special Tactics Squad and Force Intelligence Department between August 2 and 6, 2026, as part of efforts to dismantle the criminal syndicate allegedly responsible for the monarch’s murder.
According to the police, operatives located the suspect’s hideout in Ohaji/Egbema in the early hours of August 6, where he allegedly engaged them in a gun duel and sustained injuries that later led to his death.
One AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were reportedly recovered from the scene.
The police alleged that the suspect was a leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the April 10, 2026 attack along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema, where the monarch and five other persons were killed while returning to Owerri.
The Force spokesperson said four suspects had earlier been arrested in connection with the incident, while two others reportedly died during previous encounters with the police.
Iniedu said security operatives have intensified efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the alleged syndicate.
He reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to bringing all persons connected to the killings to justice and ensuring that the investigation is brought to a logical conclusion.
