Police make major investigation breakthrough into murder of Imo monarch

The Nigeria Police Force says it has recorded a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation into the murder of HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others in Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State.

A statement signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer,

Force Headquarters, said that following actionable intelligence, operatives of the Special Tactics Squad, Force Intelligence Department, STS-FID, conducted a series of operations between 2nd and 6th August, 2026, targeting members of the criminal syndicate allegedly linked to the incident.

“The operations culminated in the early hours of 6th August, 2026, when operatives located the hideout of a suspected gang kingpin, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, alias ‘Acid’, in Ohaji/Egbema.

“The suspect engaged the operatives in a gun duel and sustained injuries during the encounter, which subsequently led to his death. One AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from the scene,” he said.

The police said that the suspect was identified as an alleged leader of the criminal syndicate linked to the attack on 10th April, 2026, in which the monarch and five others were killed along the Asa/Awara road, Ohaji/Egbema, while returning to Owerri.

Four suspects had earlier been arrested in connection with the incident, while two others reportedly died during previous encounters with the police.

He added, “Following the latest operation, efforts have been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate, establish the full extent of their involvement and recover further operational intelligence and exhibits.”

The Nigeria Police said it remained committed to ensuring that all persons found to be connected with the crime were brought to justice and that every effort was made to bring the investigation to a logical conclusion.