Authorities in Ebonyi State, south-east Nigeria, say they have eliminated a notorious criminal leader responsible for a wave of violence in Iyonu community, Ishielu district.
Police spokesman SP Joshua Ukandu said the suspect, Isaiah Okoronkwo, was killed on 29 August when officers stormed his gang’s hideout in Iyonu Forest.
Okoronkwo, who had long been on the state command’s wanted list, died in a gun battle after his gang opened fire on police operatives. “The operatives gallantly subdued the criminals,” Ukandu said, confirming that two AK-47 rifles were recovered.
The operation, carried out by the Crack Squad, followed a spike in armed robbery and other crimes in the area.
Commissioner of Police Adaku Uche-Anya commended the officers involved, hailing their “courage and intelligence work,” and reiterated the command’s commitment to protecting communities.
