The Nigeria Police Force has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation into the Imo monarch murder that claimed the lives of HRH Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others in Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State. Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Aniete Iniedu, disclosed the development on Saturday, saying five suspects had been arrested in connection with the killings.
He added that two other suspects had died during exchanges of fire with police operatives. According to Iniedu, operatives of the Special Tactics Squad and Force Intelligence Department carried out a series of operations between August 2 and 6, 2026.
The operations targeted members of a criminal syndicate allegedly connected to the attack that occurred on April 10, 2026. The monarch and five others were reportedly attacked along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema while returning to Owerri.
The police spokesperson said the operation reached a major breakthrough on August 6. Operatives reportedly located the hideout of suspected gang leader Ojiogu Elumah Martin, popularly known as “Acid,” in Ohaji/Egbema. Iniedu said Martin engaged the operatives in a gun battle after they arrived at the location. He reportedly sustained injuries during the confrontation and later died.
Police recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition from the scene. The Force alleged that Martin was the leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the Imo monarch murder.
Police authorities said four suspects had earlier been arrested over the incident, while two others reportedly died during previous encounters with operatives. Following the latest operation, the Force said efforts had been intensified to apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large. The police also said investigators were working to establish the full extent of the suspects’ involvement in the killings.
Further operational intelligence and exhibits are also being sought as the investigation progresses. Iniedu assured that the Nigeria Police Force would continue pursuing everyone allegedly connected to the crime. He said the objective was to ensure that those found responsible were brought to justice and that the investigation reached its logical conclusion.
