The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the gruesome murder of three Cameroonian nationals in Nando community, Anambra East Local Government Area, with a fierce gun battle erupting as officers stormed the shrine linked to the killings.
Among those arrested is the alleged chief priest of the shrine, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, 27, also known as “Ugoebenajah,” alongside Nwabunne Bright, 27, Chinecherem Chiama, 21, and Michael Ekwunife, 38.
The Command’s spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, who disclosed this said operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, moved on the shrine on February 13, 2026, acting on confessions from two suspects earlier in custody.
“On approaching the shrine, about 30 men were observed gathered at the premises. Upon sighting the police, the armed men opened fire on the operatives,” Ikenga said.
He added that the police responded professionally, engaging the hoodlums in a gun duel.
The prime suspect, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, however, escaped alongside other gang members, some of whom sustained bullet wounds in the exchange.
One of the arrested suspects was also hit by a bullet in the thigh during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment at a hospital.
Recoveries made from the suspects include two pump-action guns, one locally-made Beretta pistol, one machete, 10 cartridges, five 9mm ammunition, expanded ammunition, and an assortment of charms.
Ikenga confirmed that the arrested suspects are currently undergoing interrogation, while a manhunt has been launched for fleeing members of the criminal gang.
“The command reiterates its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all residents and urges members of the public to continue to provide useful information that will aid ongoing investigations,” he stated.
The latest development brings to six the total number of persons arrested in connection with the triple murder, which had sent shockwaves through the Nando community and raised fresh concerns over ritual-related killings in the state.