The Nigeria Police Force has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of a traditional ruler and five others in Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State, following the death of an alleged mastermind during a gun duel with operatives. The suspect, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, also known as "Acid," was tracked down and killed in the early hours of August 6, 2026.
Police Confirm Death of Alleged Mastermind
Force Public Relations Officer CSP Ani Iniedu confirmed the development in a statement issued from Force Headquarters, Abuja, on August 8, 2026. According to the police, operatives of the Special Tactics Squad, Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID), carried out multiple targeted operations between August 2 and August 6, 2026, acting on intelligence linking specific individuals to the attack.
The suspect, Martin, opened fire on the operatives when they located him at his hideout in Ohaji/Egbema. He sustained injuries during the exchange and later died. The police recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition from the scene.
Link to April Attack on Monarch
Martin was identified as a key figure in the April 10, 2026, attack in which HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, the Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five other persons were killed along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema. The victims were travelling back to Owerri at the time of the attack.
The latest operation brings the total number of syndicate members accounted for to seven. Four suspects had been arrested in connection with the attack before this operation, while two others were killed in separate earlier encounters with police.
Ongoing Investigation
The police said efforts are now focused on tracking down remaining members of the group who are still at large, with the goal of recovering more operational material and establishing the full scope of their activities. The statement said the Nigeria Police Force "remains committed to ensuring that all persons found to be connected with the crime are brought to justice and that every effort is made to bring the investigation to a logical conclusion."
The police have not released the names of the remaining suspects but assured the public that the investigation is progressing steadily. The Imo State community has welcomed the development, expressing hope that justice will be served for the slain monarch and other victims.
