Anambra Police Bust Shrine-Linked Gang in Murder of 3 Cameroonians

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state.

Those arrested suspects include a Chief priest of a shrine in Nando in Anambra East Local government area of Anambra State.

The arrests were disclosed in a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Ikenga Tochukwu, and made available to journalists in Awka.
According to the statement, the suspects are all male,include the alleged chief priest of a shrine, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, popularly known as “Ugoebenajah,” aged 27.
Others are Nwabunne Bright (27), Chinecherem Chiama (21), and Michael Ekwunife (38).
The Command also reported the recovery of two pump-action guns, one locally made Beretta pistol, one machete, assorted charms, expanded ammunition, ten live cartridges, and five rounds of 9mm ammunition.
The items were recovered in Nando, located in Anambra East Local Government Area.
SP Tochukwu stated that the operation, which led to the arrests and recovery of weapons, was carried out on February 13, 2026.
He explained that following confessions by two earlier suspects already in custody, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, swiftly mobilised to the identified shrine in Nando.
“On approaching the shrine, about thirty able-bodied men were observed gathered at the premises. Upon sighting the police, the armed men opened fire on the operatives. The officers responded professionally, engaging the suspects in a gun duel,” he said.
He added that the prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, escaped with other gang members, some of whom reportedly sustained bullet wounds during the exchange.
One of the arrested suspects was shot in the thigh during the gun battle and was immediately taken to hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The Police spokesperson confirmed that the arrested suspects are undergoing interrogation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the criminal gang.
He reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property across the state.
He also urged members of the public to provide useful information to support ongoing investigations, assuring that further developments will be communicated in due course.