Police operatives have recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of traditional ruler HRH Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, the Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others in Imo State.
Force Public Relations Officer CSP Aniete Iniedu disclosed on Saturday that operatives of the Special Tactics Squad of the Force Intelligence Department carried out a series of targeted operations between August 2 and 6, 2026, against a criminal syndicate linked to the attack.
The operations climaxed in the early hours of August 6 when police located the hideout of suspected gang leader Ojiogu Elumah Martin, alias “Acid,” in Ohaji/Egbema. Martin engaged the officers in a gun battle, sustained fatal injuries, and died. Police recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and 56 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition from the scene.
Martin was identified as an alleged leader of the group responsible for the April 10, 2026, attack on the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema, in which the monarch and five others were killed while returning to Owerri.
Four suspects had earlier been arrested in connection with the case, while two others died in previous encounters with the police. With the latest operation, five suspects are now in custody.
Police said efforts have been intensified to track down remaining members of the syndicate, establish the full extent of their involvement, and recover additional exhibits and intelligence.
The Force reiterated its commitment to bringing all those connected with the crime to justice and concluding the investigation.
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