The Anambra State Police Command has announced the arrest of four additional suspects in connection with the brutal murder of three Cameroonian nationals, whose bodies were discovered in a river in Anambra West Local Government Area in November 2025.
Background of the Tragic Case
The victims, reportedly kidnapped by a gang of criminals, were found decomposing in a river several days after their disappearance.
The shocking discovery prompted a swift investigation by the police, leading initially to the arrest of two suspects who were cooperating with authorities and providing crucial information.
New Arrests and Shrine Raid
According to Tochukwu Ikenga, the police spokesperson, the recent arrests were made on February 13, 2026, following confessions from the two previously detained suspects.
The four newly apprehended men—Chukwuemeka Emmanuel (alias “Ugoebenajah,” 27), Nwabunne Bright (27), Chinecherem Chiama (21), and Michael Ekwunife (38)—were found in a shrine located in Nando, Anambra East LGA.
The police reported a tense confrontation at the shrine, where about 30 armed men opened fire on operatives.
The Rapid Response Squad from Awkuzu engaged in a gun duel, during which one suspect sustained a bullet wound to the thigh and was rushed to a hospital.
Meanwhile, the gang’s prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, escaped along with other members despite being injured.
Weapons and Evidence Recovered
During the raid, authorities recovered several weapons and items linked to criminal activity, including:
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Two pump-action guns
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One locally made Beretta pistol
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One machete
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Assorted ammunition
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Criminal charms
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10 live cartridges and five 9mm rounds
The police confirmed that the suspects are now under interrogation, and efforts continue to apprehend the remaining fleeing members of the gang.
Police Assurance and Public Appeal
Ikenga stressed that the Anambra State Police Command remains committed to ensuring public safety and urged residents to provide information that could assist in the ongoing investigations.
“Further developments will be communicated in due course,” he said.
Previous Investigations
Earlier reports in November 2025 revealed that the three women had been missing for some time, raising suspicions of kidnapping.
Two initial suspects—Nonso Augustine Akpeh (37) and Kingsley Akpeh (44)—were arrested for assisting with information, while the main suspect remained on the run.
What’s Next?
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Interrogation of arrested suspects: Police will continue questioning the four newly arrested men to uncover the full extent of the crime.
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Manhunt for fleeing gang members: Authorities are actively pursuing Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas and other accomplices.
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Community vigilance: Residents are encouraged to share tips and report suspicious activity to prevent further crimes.
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Prosecution: The suspects are expected to face charges once investigations are concluded, with severe penalties likely under Nigerian law.
Summary
Four more suspects have been arrested in Anambra State in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals whose bodies were discovered in a river last November.
The suspects were apprehended after a gun duel at a shrine in Nando, Anambra East LGA, where weapons and criminal charms were recovered.
The arrests follow confessions from two previously detained men and ongoing investigations aim to capture the remaining fugitives.
Authorities continue to appeal to the public for assistance to ensure justice for the victims.
