Anambra: Man Who Killed and Buried His Cousin in Shallow Grave Arrested After 8 Months, Body Exhumed

Police in Anambra State have arrested a 35-year-old man for the alleged murder of his cousin, whose disappearance went unresolved for eight months.

The suspect, identified as Chukwudalu Ezeani, was apprehended by operatives of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka following renewed investigations into a missing person report earlier filed at Amichi Police Station.

According to police findings, the incident occurred on August 1, 2025, at about 8:00 p.m. in Afube Village, Amichi. The suspect is alleged to have killed his cousin, Chinedu Ezeani, 52, at his residence before burying the body in a shallow grave within his compound.

The case, initially treated as a missing person report, was revisited after detectives received credible intelligence that led to a breakthrough.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime and guided investigators to the burial site. The remains were subsequently exhumed from the compound.

Police said the body has been deposited for forensic examination as investigations continue.

Authorities added that the suspect will be charged in court upon the conclusion of the investigation.

The Anambra State Police Command urged residents to report suspicious activities promptly, reiterating its commitment to public safety and justice.

The statement was issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, on March 25, 2026.