“We Have Arrested Nine Suspects Involved in Anambra Lawmaker’s Murder” – CP Itam

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested nine suspects linked to the murder of Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly. The arrest was confirmed by the Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, during a press briefing on Friday.

Azuka, who represented Onitsha North Constituency 1, was abducted on December 24, 2024, in Onitsha. His decomposing body was discovered on the 2nd Niger Bridge on Thursday by a combined security team comprising the police and local vigilante operatives.

According to CP Itam, the suspects were actively involved in the lawmaker’s murder. Security operatives recovered two pump-action guns during the operation, and one suspect sustained a gunshot wound in his leg during an exchange of fire with the police. The arrested individuals were identified as Ugochukwu Onuorah (30), Ikemefuna Ossai (20), Ikenna Orugu (27), Chibuike Obiefuna (19), Chinonso Olisa (19), Chinedu Okoli (21), David Ojini (25), and Peter Sunday (20), who was described as the most notorious among them. Sunday reportedly has a large tattoo reading No peace 4 d Government on his chest.

The Commissioner also announced the arrest of Chidiebere Nwosu, a suspected kidnapper, in Uruagu, Nnewi. Some of Nwosu’s gang members were neutralized after they attacked police personnel attached to the Rapid Response Squad following his arrest on October 3, 2024.

CP Itam highlighted the police command’s recent efforts in tackling crime, stating that over 100 notorious criminals have been neutralized and several criminal hideouts destroyed across the state, including in Ufuma, Eziowelle, Achalla, and Ogbaru.

He expressed gratitude to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, for their support. He also acknowledged the contributions of security agencies, the media, civil society groups, and residents of Anambra in the fight against crime.

The Commissioner reassured the public that the police and other security agencies remain committed to protecting lives and property, emphasizing that their trust will not be taken for granted.