The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of several individuals alleged to be accomplices of a notorious native doctor, popularly known as Ezeani, who is currently wanted in connection with a disturbing case of kidnapping and ritual murder.
In a press release issued on Wednesday, May 28, and signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police (SP) Daniel Ndukwe, the authorities disclosed that the arrested suspects are believed to have played active roles in the criminal activities allegedly orchestrated by Ezeani.
According to the statement, the case involves the abduction and attempted ritual killing of a 13-year-old girl, who was fortunately rescued during the police operation. The young victim is now safe and receiving appropriate care and support under the supervision of the relevant child protection and welfare agencies.
While the arrests mark significant progress in the investigation, the Command confirmed that the principal suspect, Ezeani, remains at large. Law enforcement officers are intensifying efforts to track him down and bring him to justice.
SP Ndukwe urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that may lead to the apprehension of the fugitive. He reassured residents of Enugu State that the police remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens.
The statement read, “Police operatives of the Enugu State Command, attached to the Umumba Division, in the early hours of May 27, 2025, at about 3:15 a.m., in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch personnel and vigilant community members, successfully rescued a 13-year-old girl (name withheld), allegedly kidnapped for ritual murder, at Umuojor village in Ishiagu community of Ezeagu Local Government Area.
“The operation also led to the arrest of three male suspects connected to the crime, namely: Uche Kingsley Agumba, aged 33; Ilo Nweze Onyedikachi, aged 36; and Ejike Odinwankpa, aged 38.
“The prime suspect, identified as High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu nicknamed “Ezeani” and “E-Dey-Play-E-Dey-Show,” a native doctor and prominent member of the community, fled the scene and is currently at large.
“During the rescue, two decomposing bodies, one male and one female, were discovered buried in a concrete-sealed pit within an uncompleted building, owned and used as a shrine, and heinous criminal activities by the fleeing prime suspect.
“Investigations reveal that the deceased victims were recently murdered and buried in the pit by the suspects for ritual purposes, and the rescued child was moments away from suffering the same fate before the timely intervention.
“In line with its laws, the Enugu State Government has demolished the buildings owned by the fleeing prime suspect and used for the criminal enterprise.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, who promptly visited the crime scene, has commended the efforts of the police operatives, local security groups, and community members, whose collaboration ensured the success of the operation.
“He has also directed the Command’s Tactical Squads, as well as Investigation and Intelligence Units, to intensify efforts in tracking down the fleeing suspect and other accomplices still at large, with a firm resolve to ensure justice is served.”