The command, in a press release signed by the spokesperson of the command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that its operatives also recovered the remains of the murdered victim, a vehicle and N5 million suspected to be ransom money paid to the suspects.
The release read: “Following sustained intelligence-led investigations by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, RRS, Awkuzu, five suspects in connection with the kidnap and murder of one Chinedu Echezona have been arrested.
“The suspects were arrested on 12th November 2026 at Omoba Phase II, Nkpor, Onitsha. The Command has also recovered the victim’s remains, his vehicle, a black Honda CR-V with Reg. Number YAB 220 DM, and the ₦5 million ransom allegedly collected by the suspects.”
Ikenga said preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was reportedly kidnapped in the early hours of 29th January 2026.
“Initial investigative efforts, which extended to a neighbouring state, did not yield the desired breakthrough, as the armed gang reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦20 million.
“During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to their involvement in the crime, disclosing that they abducted the victim on 29th January 2026 and subsequently collected a ransom of ₦5 million.
“They further allegedly admitted to killing him after collecting the ransom and revealed that two firearms were used in carrying out the operation.”
The suspects’ names were given as follows: Chidozie Francis, aged 24; Kosisọchukwu Eziani, aged 28; Akachukwu Maduabuchi, aged 22; Chibuzor Onurah, aged 29; and Echezona Ude, aged 22.
In another development, police command stated that at about noon on 14th November 2026, operatives, acting on information obtained from the suspects, led them to a location where the victim’s remains had been concealed.
“The remains were successfully recovered and deposited in a mortuary for preservation and necessary forensic examination.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has directed the operatives to intensify efforts towards recovering the two firearms allegedly used in the crime and establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident,” Ikenga said.
He was also quoted as commending the operatives for their persistence, professionalism and commitment, particularly for ensuring that the case was not abandoned despite the considerable time that had elapsed since the victim’s abduction.
