Police Arrest Suspect in Rivers Murder Case, Exhume Victim from Shallow Grave
The Rivers State Police Command has made a significant arrest in connection with the brutal murder of a 42-year-old man, Shedrack Chukwem, in Etche Local Government Area. The suspect, identified as Robinson Uche, was apprehended following intensive investigative efforts by the police.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Grace Iringe-Koko, on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, the arrest occurred at approximately 7:30 a.m. on March 6, 2026. Operatives from the Anti-Cultism Unit, Emuohia Annex, tracked and captured Uche, a 29-year-old native of Umuechem in Etche LGA.
During interrogation, Uche reportedly confessed to his active involvement in the killing of Shedrack Chukwem. He disclosed that the incident took place on December 17, 2025, when he and four other individuals were allegedly hired by a monarch, Chief Elijah Okere, to bring the deceased to his palace.
The Gruesome Crime and Aftermath
The suspect detailed how the group attempted to arrest Chukwem while he was attending a family meeting. When their efforts failed, the confrontation escalated, resulting in the victim being shot and killed. Uche alleged that the group then transported the body to a bush in Ekerre-Ugbor, where it was hastily buried in a shallow grave.
Following his confession, Uche led police operatives to the burial site. The remains of Shedrack Chukwem were successfully exhumed from the shallow grave and subsequently deposited at the Military Hospital Mortuary for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
Ongoing Police Efforts and Public Assurance
The Rivers State Police Command has intensified efforts to apprehend the other suspects involved in this heinous crime, who are currently at large. The Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adewole Adepoju, has assured the public of the command's unwavering commitment to ensuring justice in this matter.
CP Adepoju emphasized that the police will continue to pursue all individuals connected to the crime, promising further updates as the investigation progresses. This case highlights the persistent efforts of law enforcement in Rivers State to combat violent crimes and bring perpetrators to justice.
