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Anambra police have arrested nine suspects linked to the kidnapping and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a state lawmaker. The suspects, including a notorious gang leader, were apprehended in a joint operation. Security forces recovered weapons and intensified efforts to combat crime in the state. Investigations are ongoing.

Security operatives in Anambra State have arrested nine suspects in connection with the abduction and killing of Hon. Justice Azuka, a lawmaker representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the State House of Assembly.

Azuka was forcibly taken by armed men on December 24, 2024, while driving home for the holidays. His body was later discovered near the Second Niger Bridge on February 6, 2025.

Addressing journalists at the police headquarters in Awka, Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Obono Itam confirmed that intelligence-led investigations led to the arrest of the suspects. One of the detainees, identified as Peter Sunday, 20, is known for his criminal record and has a distinctive tattoo reading "No peace 4 d Government."

The police, working alongside local vigilante operatives, recovered two pump-action rifles from the suspects. During the operation, one individual sustained injuries following an armed confrontation with officers.

In a related crackdown, law enforcement in Nnewi captured a suspected kidnapper, Chidiebere Nwosu, and neutralized members of his gang who had previously attacked police personnel.

CP Itam reassured residents of the government’s commitment to tackling insecurity and acknowledged the cooperation of Governor Chukwuma Soludo, the Inspector General of Police, and local security forces.

Investigations are ongoing, and authorities have vowed to bring all individuals involved in the killing to justice, emphasizing that Anambra State will not be a haven for criminals.