The Anambra Police Command says it has recorded a major victory in its battle against violent crime with the arrest of a 26-year-old robbery suspect believed to be heavily involved in the kidnap and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka of the Labour Party.
Azuka, who represented Onitsha North I Constituency, was abducted on Christmas Eve 2024 while travelling along Ugwunaobakpa Road in Inland Town, Onitsha. His disappearance shocked many, and hopes of finding him alive were dashed when his remains were discovered on 6 February near the Second Niger Bridge.
Announcing the arrest in Awka, Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga said the suspect was captured by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad during a high-risk offensive in Ogbaru Local Government Area on 8 December. The suspect, said to be badly injured during the encounter, was tracked to Iyowa Odekpe.
Describing him as a “dangerous criminal with a long history of violent offences,” Ikenga revealed that officers recovered a locally made Beretta pistol and eleven live rounds. He added that the suspect had a large tattoo bearing the chilling inscriptions “No Forgiveness” and “No Mercy,” a sign, he said, of the man’s hardened criminal mindset.
During questioning, the suspect allegedly admitted to leading several criminal gangs across Anambra and neighbouring states. He also confessed to playing a central role in the abduction and killing of Hon. Azuka, whose murder generated widespread outrage throughout the state.
Ikenga said the arrest marked a significant stride in dismantling the criminal networks operating in the region. He added that detectives were continuing their investigations with the aim of identifying and apprehending other accomplices.
The Police Command called on the public to remain alert and to support ongoing security efforts by providing timely information. It encouraged residents to report criminal activities confidentially via the Control Room on 07039194332 or the PPRO’s line on 08039334002.
