The Nigeria Police Force in Anambra State has arrested a domestic staff member allegedly linked to the murder of a Pentecostal bishop in Delta State and the attempted sale of the cleric’s stolen Toyota Prado Jeep in Anambra.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Ikioye Orutugu, disclosed on Tuesday that the suspect, who reportedly served as the bishop’s driver and domestic aide, was apprehended during an intelligence-led operation by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu.
According to the police, the victim was a bishop of End-Reconciliation Ministry based in Asaba.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said preliminary investigations indicated that the suspect allegedly conspired with other criminal elements, currently at large, to murder his employer before fleeing with the victim’s Toyota Prado Jeep to Anambra State for disposal.
“The breakthrough followed a swift intelligence-led operation by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, which led to the arrest of the suspect and another individual alleged to be the buyer of the stolen vehicle,” the statement said.
The police added that operatives tracked and intercepted the suspects in Nkpor, Idemili North Local Government Area, where the stolen vehicle was recovered.
“Police operatives, acting on credible information, successfully recovered the stolen vehicle and took the suspects into custody for further interrogation,” Ikenga stated.
The Command said investigations were ongoing to arrest other members of the alleged criminal gang and unravel the full circumstances surrounding the bishop’s death.
Reacting to the development, CP Orutugu advised residents to be more cautious in the recruitment and management of domestic workers, drivers, and household employees.
“He urged members of the public to properly profile and verify the identities of persons employed in their homes and establishments, while also remaining vigilant to suspicious behaviours and activities,” the statement added.
The commissioner further assured residents that the Anambra State Police Command would continue to strengthen intelligence-driven policing and collaboration with other security agencies to protect lives and property across the state.
