Imo monarch’s murder: 5 suspects arrested, gang kingpin killed in shootout

By Kingsley Omonobi

The Force headquarters disclosed on Saturday that Police operatives have recorded a breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the murder of HRH Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others in Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State.

Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, made the disclosure, noting that two other suspects were killed during exchange of fire between the gang and policemen.

He said, “Following actionable intelligence, operatives of the Special Tactics Squad, Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID), conducted a series of operations between 2nd and 6th August, 2026, targeting members of the criminal syndicate allegedly linked to the incident.

“The operations culminated in the early hours of 6th August, 2026, when operatives located the hideout of a suspected gang kingpin, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, alias ‘Acid’, in Ohaji/Egbema.

“The suspect engaged the operatives in a gun duel and sustained injuries during the encounter, which subsequently led to his death. One AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from the scene.

“The suspect was identified as an alleged leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the attack of 10th April, 2026, in which the monarch and five others were killed along the Asa/Awara Road, Ohaji/Egbema, while returning to Owerri.

“Four suspects had earlier been arrested in connection with the incident, while two others reportedly died during previous encounters with the Police.

“Following the latest operation, efforts have been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, establish the full extent of their involvement and recover further operational intelligence and exhibits.

“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to ensuring that all persons found to be connected with the crime are brought to justice and that every effort is made to bring the investigation to a logical conclusion.”

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