Police Arrest Nine Suspects
The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested nine suspects in connection with the kidnapping and killing of a traditional ruler, Eze Francis Igwe.
The traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike Ikwo and father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Sunday, 1st March , 2026, while on his way to Church.
Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, Joshua Ukandu, who disclosed this in a statement issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, said that the suspects were arrested following intensive operations launched after the monarch’s abduction on March 1.
According to the PPRO, police operatives immediately deployed intelligence and technical resources to rescue the monarch.
He said the operation first led to the arrest of two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate, and during interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that the traditional ruler was killed on March 2.
The suspects agreed to lead security operatives to the gang’s hideout to recover the body, but as the police team approached the hideout, other members of the gang reportedly opened fire on the operatives.
The police responded with what was described as superior firepower, overpowering the attackers.
One of the suspects was neutralised, while others fled the scene.
The police later arrested seven additional suspects in connection with the crime and recovered a locally made pistol.
Ukandu added that the remains of the late monarch were subsequently recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.
The police spokesperson said the suspects are currently in custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other fleeing members.
He said that investigations are ongoing after which the suspects would be charged to court.
