In a shocking turn of events, the Imo State Police Command has arrested a traditional ruler, Eze Andrew Okwuegbunwa, alongside nine other suspects for alleged involvement in kidnapping and armed robbery. The monarch, who hails from Uba-Agwa in Oguta LGA, was paraded alongside the other suspects at the Police Command Headquarters in Owerri.
The Crime Syndicate
The gang, which included Pastor Caleb Agu, was responsible for various heinous crimes, including kidnapping, armed robbery, assaults, and rape. They collected ransom from their victims and used the proceeds to fund their operations. The Eze provided the gang with vehicles and collected payment from the proceeds of their crimes.
The Incident
In May 2020, the gang ambushed and attacked a team of NDLEA operatives, killing one and leaving two seriously wounded. They also made off with the operatives’ rifles. However, it appears that the incident you mentioned, which occurred in May 2024, is not accurate.
The Arrest and Recovery
The police recovered a sum of N4 million, including N3 million cash seized from the Eze. They also recovered the NDLEA rifles snatched by the gang in May 2020. Additionally, a Lexus 330 SUV, four AK-47 rifles, one LAR rifle, one SMG rifle, and 120 rounds of 7.62MM live ammunition were recovered.
The suspects will soon be charged to court, and investigations are ongoing.