The Enugu State Police Command has announced the apprehension of eight individuals linked to the murder of Igwe Ezugwu Patrick, the traditional ruler of Adani Autonomous Community in Uzo Uwani council area.
Igwe Patrick was reportedly murdered in his village, Akutara, on Sunday.
The state Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, announced the arrest of eight suspects during a visit to the community on Monday.
Uzuegbu stated that he and his team were present to evaluate the situation for decisive police intervention.
He emphasized the commitment to identifying both the masterminds and perpetrators of the criminal acts, ensuring they face the consequences of the law.
The police boss said, “The governor of Enugu State said I should relocate to this local government and ensure that all those responsible for this unfortunate act are apprehended in line with the state’s zero tolerance for crime.
“Immediately the news got to me, I dispatched my men from the Criminal Investigation Department and the Area Command, led by the Area Commander, to visit here and ensure that all those involved are arrested because no incident like this should happen without severe consequences.”
“I want to disclose that so far, we have arrested eight prime suspects and we will continue to trail the remaining criminal masterminds of this murder. We must get to the root of this matter by unravelling all those behind the killing.
“I want to let you know that the governor is not happy that a breach of this nature could occur, so he asked me to come here to ensure that all the criminals are fished out. I can assure you that these criminals will never go unpunished.
“So, all those responsible for this crime will be brought to book and punished according to the law.”
During the visit, Chief S.N Utazi, the President-General of the community, briefed the CP, expressing the community’s appreciation for the prompt response from the state government following the tragic news.
He mentioned that the heinous crime was unforeseen, as the community had enjoyed a period of peace recently. Chief Utazi urged the police to persist in the search for the remaining suspects.
Dr. Obinna Ayogu, the community’s traditional prime minister, expressed shock at the monarch’s murder.
He commended the governor and security agencies for meeting expectations through the proactive measures taken to reassure the community and the local government about their safety.