Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
At last operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have rearrested Ikemefuna Ossai, one of the suspects linked to the gruesome murder of Honourable Justice Chukwunenye Azuka, but earlier escaped from their custody.
Recall that Azuka, the member representing Onitsha I constituency in the State House of Assembly, was kidnapped in Onitsha on December 24, 2024, while returning home for the yuletide holiday.
His decomposing body was however discover by joint security forces near the Second Niger Bridge on February 6, 2025.
Two suspects, namely, Ikemefuna Ossai and Chinedu Okoli, who were arrested in connection with the incident, however escaped on February 8, 2025, while leading operatives to arrest other suspects in Onitsha.
A statement on Tuesday by the Command’s Spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed that the suspect was rearrested following a painstaking and intelligence-led operation.
“The suspect, who had previously escaped custody, was tracked across multiple States within Nigeria and even into a neighbouring West African country.
“He was eventually apprehended on 7th May 2025 in Asaba, Delta State. Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect attempted to escape arrest but was swiftly subdued and sustained a gunshot wound in the leg in the process.
“The Police Command in its continued commitment to transparency and accountability, has briefed relevant stakeholders including the family of the late lawmaker and the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly.
“During the engagement, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged and expressed regret over the operational lapses that led to the suspect’s earlier escape.
“Further to this development, actionable intelligence obtained from the suspect is currently aiding ongoing operations.
“The Command has intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining fugitive and dismantle the criminal network responsible for this heinous crime,” the statement said.
The Command reiterates its unwavering resolve to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of the people of Anambra.