The Nigeria Police Force has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five others in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.
In a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, CSP Ani Iniedu said the breakthrough followed a series of intelligence-led operations conducted by operatives of the Special Tactics Squad of the Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) between August 2 and 6, 2026, targeting members of the criminal syndicate allegedly linked to the killings.
The police said the operation culminated in the early hours of August 6, when operatives located the hideout of a suspected gang kingpin, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, alias “Acid”, in Ohaji/Egbema.
According to the Force, the suspect engaged the operatives in a gun duel and sustained injuries during the encounter, subsequently leading to his death.
One AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition were recovered from the scene.
The police identified Martin as an alleged leader of the criminal syndicate suspected of involvement in the April 10, 2026 attack along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema, where the monarch and five others were killed while returning to Owerri.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, said four suspects had previously been arrested in connection with the incident, while two others reportedly died during earlier encounters with the police.
Following the latest operation, the police said efforts had been intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the alleged syndicate and determine the full extent of their involvement in the killings.
The Force also said it was pursuing further operational intelligence and exhibits that could assist investigators in bringing the case to a logical conclusion.
The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all persons found to be connected with the crime are brought to justice.
