The Ebonyi State Police Command has arrested the alleged mastermind behind the kidnapping and killing of the traditional ruler of Ndufu Alike Ikwo, HRH Ezeogo Francis Igwe.
According to the police, the suspect, identified as Nwazunku Stephen, was apprehended following an intelligence-led operation carried out by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
The late monarch was reportedly abducted last Sunday while on his way to church. His captors later killed him after demanding ransom from his family.
Earlier, the police had arrested nine suspects in connection with the crime, including the State Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Ebonyi State Command, SP Joshua Ukandu, one of the previously arrested suspects helped security operatives trace the hideout of the alleged mastermind.
During a search of the location, officers recovered several weapons and items believed to be linked to the crime. These included a submachine gun (SMG), a pump-action rifle, three locally fabricated Beretta-style pistols, eleven rounds of 9mm live ammunition, ten live cartridges, a machete, a shovel, and assorted charms.
Ukandu explained that the arrest of the suspected ringleader followed sustained surveillance and intelligence gathering by the police.
He added that the suspect is currently cooperating with investigators and providing useful information to assist ongoing investigations.
The police command assured residents that efforts are ongoing to apprehend all individuals connected to the kidnapping and murder of the monarch and bring them to justice.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to tackling kidnapping and other security threats across Ebonyi State.
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