The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested six suspects allegedly linked to the murder of the traditional ruler of Ishinkwo Community, HRH Eze Josephat Nnanna Ikegwu.
Key Highlights:
- Ebonyi State Police Command arrested six suspects over the killing of Josephat Nnanna Ikegwu.
- The arrests followed intelligence-led investigations by police operatives in Abakaliki.
- Police recovered an AK-47 rifle and eight rounds of live ammunition from the suspects.
- The monarch was reportedly murdered at his residence on April 2, 2026, causing tension in the community.
- Hope Urunwa Okafor assured residents that the suspects would face justice after investigations.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday in Abakaliki, noting that the arrests followed sustained intelligence-led investigations by operatives of the Command.
The suspects identified as Ucha Johnson, Ogobuchi Igwe, Nkpuma Nwankwo, Edwin Onwoshi, Itumo Joseph, and Emmanuel Nwaoba were apprehended in connection with the killing.
According to the police, operatives also recovered one AK-47 rifle loaded with eight rounds of live ammunition during the operation.
Read also:
- Kidnapped Ebonyi Monarch dies in captivity, Police arrest 9 alleged suspects
- Ebonyi monarch seeks SEMA, NEMA intervention to rebuild war-torn community
- Ebonyi confirms arrest of APC chieftain over kidnap, murder of monarch
The monarch was reportedly murdered at his residence on April 2, 2026, a development that sparked tension and concern within the community.
Reacting to the arrests, the Commissioner of Police in Ebonyi State, Hope Urunwa Okafor, reaffirmed the Command’s determination to ensure that all those involved in the crime are brought to justice.
She assured residents of the Command’s continued commitment to tackling violent crimes and maintaining public safety across the state.
The police said the suspects would be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.



