How DSS tracked, arrested four suspected IPOB members over operative’s murder
Investigator Testifies in Federal High Court About Alleged Abduction and Murder
ABUJA — An investigator testified Wednesday as the first prosecution witness in a high-profile case at the Federal High Court, detailing allegations of the abduction and murder of a missing operative, Owoh. The defendants, identified as Michael Okafor, also known as Onyechimeleze; Chinedu Chukwudozie, alias Kante; Chibunna Olisa; and Chigozie Olisa, referred to as Ability, have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
The witness, who was presented under the codename AAA for security reasons, reported that he has served with the Department of State Services (DSS) for approximately 17 years. He explained that the investigation commenced in February 2022 after Owoh’s wife filed a report with the DSS Anambra Command concerning his disappearance while en route from Port Harcourt to Awka.
According to AAA, a technical analysis of Owoh’s movements revealed he was last seen in Osomogu, located in the Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State. The investigator also noted that Owoh’s vehicle, a Toyota Pontiac, was traced to that same community.
As part of the investigation, the DSS worked alongside the military due to the area’s connection with the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and the Eastern Security Network (ESN). On June 20, 2026, the arrest of one Chinyere Okabue led to critical information that helped in capturing the defendants. Okafor, described as the principal suspect and an ESN sub-commander, was arrested on September 14, 2026, with the other three defendants captured shortly thereafter on September 20.
Recounting details of the case, AAA said Owoh communicated with his wife on February 23, 2022, stating he would return home to see their newborn. It is alleged that Okafor and his co-defendants intercepted him, taking him to their camp. The witness claimed that Chibunna Olisa drove Owoh’s vehicle into this location, where he was detained before an ESN sub-commander, known as Double Lion, allegedly ordered his execution. The witness stated, “He was shot several times and buried in a shallow grave.”
Further allegations made by AAA included that the defendants bore an identification mark, “1414,” associated with the ESN, intended as a form of protection. Following this assertion, Justice Abdulmalik directed the defendants to display their arms, allowing the witness and defense attorneys, K.C. Ekwe and G.U. Oputa, to inspect the markings.
The investigator also asserted that after Owoh’s death, Okafor appropriated the victim’s vehicle and gifted his mobile phone to his girlfriend, Chinyere. She was later granted administrative bail after investigators determined she had no knowledge of the crime.
Additionally, AAA testified that Okafor fled Nigeria, residing in Cote d’Ivoire and later India, where he was reportedly engaged in criminal activities before being deported in 2024. Upon his return, he allegedly hid out in Azia, Ihiala Local Government Area, where he worked as a bricklayer until his arrest through intelligence-led operations.
The witness stated that all four defendants provided voluntary statements to investigators, which were recorded in the presence of a representative from the Legal Aid Council. They were informed of their rights, including the right to remain silent, and any statements made could be utilized in court. The statements were later admitted as evidence after the defense raised no objections, and they were marked as Exhibit TWT-5 Series.
Justice Abdulmalik has scheduled the next hearing for November 16, during which the witness will face cross-examination. The judge warned defense attorneys that failure to appear could jeopardize their right to question the witness.
