Anambra Police Nab 26-Year-Old Robbery Suspect Linked To Lawmaker’s Killing

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old suspected armed robber, Ugochukwu Uzor, during a major security operation carried out at Iyiowa Odekpe in Ogbaru Local Government Area of the state.

Operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, apprehended the suspect after he sustained serious injuries during the operation on Monday.

Confirming the arrest in a statement issued on Wednesday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that a locally fabricated Beretta pistol and 11 live rounds of ammunition were recovered from Uzor at the point of arrest.

According to Ikenga, the suspect confessed during interrogation to leading several criminal gangs operating across Anambra State and neighbouring regions.

He further revealed his involvement in the abduction and subsequent killing of a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Azuka Justice, on December 24, 2024.

The statement described the arrest as a major breakthrough, noting that Uzor was apprehended after a fierce confrontation with police operatives. Authorities also disclosed that the suspect bears prominent tattoos reading “No Forgiveness” and “No Mercy,” which, according to the police, reflect his violent criminal disposition.

“The murder of Hon. Justice shook the state and attracted widespread condemnation,” the statement added.

Ikenga said the arrest will significantly aid ongoing investigations targeted at dismantling criminal syndicates operating within the state, while urging residents to remain vigilant and continue to support law enforcement agencies in the fight against crime.

In a separate development, the police also arrested one Emmanuel Osuigwe, identified as a suspected member of a banned secessionist group, during an intelligence-driven operation in Ozubulu, Ekwusigo Local Government Area.