Police kill suspected gang leader linked to Imo monarch’s murder

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the killing of a suspected gang leader allegedly linked to the murder of Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.

The Force Public Relations Officer, Ani Iniedu, said the suspect, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, popularly 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 the Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) between August 2 and 6, 2026, as part of efforts to dismantle the criminal syndicate allegedly responsible for the monarch’s killing.

According to the police spokesperson, operatives located Martin’s hideout in Ohaji/Egbema in the early hours of August 6, where he engaged them in a gun duel.

The suspect sustained injuries during the encounter and later died.

Police said an AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from the scene.

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The Force identified Martin as an alleged leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the April 10, 2026 attack in which Ekwueme and five other persons were killed along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema while returning to Owerri.

The police said four suspects had previously been arrested in connection with the attack, while two other alleged members of the syndicate were killed during earlier encounters with security operatives.

Iniedu said the police had intensified efforts to track down other members of the group who remained at large.

He assured that the Force would continue its investigation and pursue all persons found to be connected with the attack, with a view to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.

The police spokesperson said the latest operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks and bring the investigation into the killing of the monarch and the other victims to a logical conclusion.