Anambra Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Awka.
According to him, the suspects— all male— include an alleged shrine chief priest, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, popularly known as “Ugoebenajah,” aged 27; Nwabunne Bright, 27; Chinecherem Chiama, 21; and Michael Ekwunife, 38.
kenga said police operatives also recovered two pump-action guns, one locally made Beretta pistol, a machete, assorted charms, expanded ammunition, 10 live cartridges, and five rounds of live 9mm ammunition during the operation carried out in Nando community, Anambra East Local Government Area.
The police spokesperson explained that the breakthrough followed confessions by two earlier arrested suspects already in custody.
“This feat was recorded on February 13, 2026. Following the confession of the two earlier arrested suspects, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu swiftly mobilised to the identified shrine in Nando,” he said.
He added that upon approaching the shrine, about 30 able-bodied men were sighted at the premises.
“On sighting the police, the armed men opened fire on the operatives. The operatives responded professionally and engaged them in a gun duel,” Ikenga stated.
During the exchange of gunfire, the prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, reportedly escaped alongside other gang members, some of whom sustained bullet wounds.
The police further revealed that one of the arrested suspects sustained a gunshot injury to the thigh during the shootout and was immediately taken to a hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The arrested suspects are undergoing interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
The Command reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of residents and urged members of the public to provide useful information to support ongoing investigations.
Further developments, the police said, will be communicated in due course.