Police kill gang leader linked to murder of Imo traditional ruler
Nigeria Police Force Kills Suspected Gang Leader Linked to Monarch’s Murder
The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the death of a suspected gang leader associated with the murder of Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.
Force Public Relations Officer Ani Iniedu stated that the suspect, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, also known as “Acid,” was killed during an armed confrontation with police operatives.
According to Iniedu, the operation was carried out by the Special Tactics Squad of the Force Intelligence Department between August 2 and 6, 2026. This initiative aimed to apprehend members of a criminal syndicate believed to be connected to the murder of the traditional ruler.
In the early hours of August 6, police operatives tracked Martin to his hideout in Ohaji/Egbema. During the encounter, he reportedly engaged officers in a gun battle, sustaining injuries that led to his death.
From the scene, authorities retrieved an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition. Martin was recognized as an alleged leader of the gang involved in the attack on April 10, 2026, which resulted in the deaths of Ekwueme and five others on the Asa/Awara Road as they were returning to Owerri.
Iniedu noted that four other suspects had been arrested in connection with the case, while two additional suspects died in earlier confrontations with police.
He emphasized that efforts are ongoing to capture remaining members of the syndicate, and reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to bring all individuals connected to the crime to justice, ensuring the investigation reaches a conclusive end.
