The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested the Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, Simbad Victor Ogbuatu, over his alleged involvement in the kidnap and killing of a traditional ruler, HRH Eze Francis Igwe.
The late monarch was the father of the immediate past Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Kelechi Igwe.
According to security sources, the traditional ruler was reportedly abducted while on his way to church and was said to have died in captivity less than 24 hours after the incident.
Investigations reportedly began after security operatives traced a ₦500,000 ransom payment made during the kidnapping to a local bank account. The account holder was later interrogated by investigators and allegedly identified Ogbuatu as the individual who provided the bank details used for the ransom transaction.
Following the discovery, security agents launched an operation that led to the arrest of Ogbuatu alongside eight other suspected members of the kidnapping gang
Police sources also revealed that the suspects allegedly confessed during interrogation, leading investigators to a shallow grave where the remains of the monarch were recovered. The body has since been deposited in a morgue in Abakaliki
The development has sparked widespread reactions across Ebonyi State, particularly in the Ikwo community, where the late traditional ruler hailed from.
Meanwhile, Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Nwifuru, has reportedly assured residents that those responsible for the crime will face the full weight of the law, regardless of political affiliation.
Ogbuatu and the other suspects are currently in police custody and are expected to be charged with kidnapping, conspiracy, and murder after the conclusion of investigations.
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