The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested nine suspects over the kidnapping and killing of a traditional ruler, Eze Francis Igwe.
Eze Igwe, the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area and father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor Barrister Kelechi Igwe, was reportedly abducted in the early hours of Sunday while on his way to church.
In a statement issued on Friday, March 6, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Joshua Ukandu, said the arrests followed intensive operations launched by security operatives after the monarch’s abduction on March 1.
Ukandu explained that police operatives immediately deployed intelligence and technical resources in a bid to rescue the monarch. The operation initially led to the arrest of two suspected members of the kidnapping syndicate.
According to him, during interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2 and agreed to lead security operatives to the gang’s hideout to recover the body.
However, as police approached the hideout, other members of the gang reportedly opened fire on the operatives. The police responded and overpowered the attackers during the exchange.
One suspect was neutralized during the gun battle, while others fled the scene.
The police later arrested seven additional suspects linked to the crime and recovered a locally made pistol from them.
Ukandu added that the remains of the late monarch were subsequently recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.
He said the suspects are currently in police custody, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the gang.
The police spokesperson added that investigations are ongoing and the suspects will be charged in court upon completion.
