Police Kill Suspected Gang Leader Linked to Murder of Imo Monarch, 5 Others
The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the April 10, 2026, killing of the traditional ruler of Ochia Kingdom in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State and five other persons.
The breakthrough followed a series of intelligence-led operations conducted by operatives of the Special Tactics Squad of the Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) between August 2 and 6, 2026, targeting members of a criminal syndicate allegedly linked to the killings.
In the early hours of August 6, operatives reportedly located the hideout of a suspected gang kingpin, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, also known as “Acid,” in Ohaji/Egbema.
According to the Police, the suspect engaged the operatives in a gun battle and sustained injuries during the encounter, which later resulted in his death.
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The Police said an AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from the scene.
Martin was allegedly a leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the April 10 attack in which HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others were killed along the Asa/Awara Road, Ohaji/Egbema, while returning to Owerri.
The Police said four suspects had earlier been arrested in connection with the incident, while two other suspects reportedly died during previous encounters with security operatives.
Following the latest operation, the Force said efforts had been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, determine the full extent of their involvement and recover additional operational intelligence and exhibits.
The Police assured that all persons found to have been involved in the killings would be brought to justice, stressing its commitment to bringing the investigation to a logical conclusion.
The statement was signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, on Saturday, August 8, 2026.
By PRNigeria
