The Police in Ebonyi State have confirmed the death of a monarch, Eze Francis Igwe, father of the immediate past deputy governor of the State, who was kidnapped on his way to church on Sunday.
The kidnap occurred in his domain, Ndufu-Alike, Ikwo Local Government Area – the host community of the Alex Ekwueme Federal University in Ebonyi State.
The State Police Command also confirmed the arrest of seven suspects in connection with the kidnap incident.
A Press statement by the State Command Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, says following the report of the kidnap of the monarch Sunday, 1st March, Operatives were promptly deployed on intensive operations, aimed at rescuing the victim.
Ukandu explained that initial lead, led to the arrest of two prime suspects, identified as members of the kidnapping syndicate, who upon interrogation confessed the killing of the monarch on 2nd March.
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Ukandu stated that the two suspects led the Police operatives to their hideout where the remains of the monarch were recovered and evacuated.
The press statement added that an ensuing gun duel between Police personnel and other members of the gang led to the death of one of the hoodlums, and seven arrested, while others fled the scene.
The Police further disclosed that a locally made pistol was recovered from the suspect, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the gang.
Ikwo Local Government Area in Ebonyi State has a notorious record of violent attacks in recent time, which observers attribute to efforts by political actors to hold dominance in the area, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
(Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie)
