The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state, recovering firearms, ammunition and suspected criminal charms during a raid in Anambra East Local Government Area.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on February 16, 2026.
According to the statement, the suspects — all males — include the alleged chief priest of a shrine, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, popularly known as “Ugoebenajah,” aged 27, alongside Nwabunne Bright (27), Chinecherem Chiama (21) and Michael Ekwunife (38).
The police said the arrests were made on February 13, 2026, following confessions by two earlier suspects already in custody. Acting on the information obtained, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, stormed a shrine in Nando community, Anambra East LGA.
“The Command Operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad Awkuzu swiftly mobilised to the identified shrine in Nando,” the statement said.
The police said the operation turned violent when armed men at the shrine engaged officers in a gun battle.
“On approaching the shrine, about thirty able-bodied men were observed gathered at the premises. Upon sighting the Police, the armed men opened fire on the operatives. The Police operatives responded professionally, engaging the armed men in a gun duel,” Ikenga stated.
During the exchange, the prime suspect, identified as Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, reportedly escaped with other gang members, some of whom were believed to have sustained gunshot wounds. One of the arrested suspects was shot in the thigh during the confrontation and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
Items recovered from the shrine include two pump-action guns, one locally made Beretta pistol, one machete, assorted charms, expanded ammunition, ten live cartridges and five live 9mm rounds.
The police spokesperson said the arrested suspects are undergoing interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing gang leader and other members of the criminal group.
“The Command reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and urges members of the public to continue to provide useful information that will aid ongoing investigations. Further developments will be communicated in due course,” the statement added.
