Ike Nnachi, Abakaliki
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force in Ebonyi State have arrested the alleged mastermind behind the kidnapping and murder of a traditional ruler, HRM Francis Igwe.
The monarch was the father of a former deputy governor of the state, Kelechi Igwe.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday.
He said the suspect, identified as Nwazunku Stephen, was arrested on March 8 at his hideout in Ikwo after sustained surveillance and intelligence-led operations by operatives of the command.
Ukandu said the arrest followed earlier progress made by the command in its investigation.
He explained that on March 7, one of the suspects led operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad to his hideout, where arms and other items were recovered.
Items recovered, according to him, include one SMG rifle, one pump-action rifle, three locally made Beretta pistols, 11 rounds of 9mm live ammunition, 10 live cartridges, a machete, a shovel and assorted charms.
“The suspect has since provided useful information and is currently assisting the command in the ongoing investigation,” Ukandu said.
He assured members of the public that the investigation was ongoing and that all those connected with the crime would be apprehended and brought to justice.
