Police arrest six over murder of Ebonyi traditional ruler, recover AK-47

The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested six suspects allegedly linked to the murder of the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Community, HRH Eze Josephat Nnanna Ikegwu.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abakaliki, noting that the arrests followed sustained intelligence-led investigations by operatives of the command.

The suspects, identified as Ucha Johnson, Ogobuchi Igwe, Nkpuma Nwankwo, Edwin Onwoshi, Itumo Joseph, and Emmanuel Nwaoba, were apprehended in connection with the killing.

According to the police, operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition during the operation.

The monarch was reportedly murdered at his residence on April 2, 2026, a development that sparked tension and concern within the community.

Reacting to the arrests, the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Hope Urunwa Okafor, reaffirmed the command’s determination to ensure that all those involved in the crime are brought to justice.

She assured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to tackling violent crimes and maintaining public safety across the state.

The police said the suspects would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.