The Ebonyi State Police Command says its operatives have arrested no fewer than seven suspects in connection with the murder of Igboke Ewa, the traditional ruler of Omege, Umuezeokaoha in Ezza North Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Onome Onovwakpoyeya, made this known via a statement issued on Wednesday.

The monarch was killed at his palace by gunmen on February 27, 2023.

Onovwakpoyeya listed the arrested suspects to include Nnabuike Emmanuel, 26; Chukwudi Aliewa, 28; Obinna Nwampepe, 39; Nwampepe Uchenna Eze, 28; Nwogha George, 29; Nnamdi Paul; and Odo Kenneth.

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He noted: “Sequel to the attack and murder of the traditional ruler, a formal complaint was made at the Divisional Police Headquarters, Achiagu, in the area by his son, Mr Igboke Samuel, that his father, 76, of Umu-Ezekoha Community in Ezza North, was attacked and murdered in cold blood in his palace by hoodlums.

“A petition dated March 1 was also received by the police on behalf of the family. Shortly, the complainant made useful statement to the police. In the course of investigation, seven suspects out of 10 were apprehended.”

The police spokesperson said three of the suspects, during interrogation, confessed and mentioned some of their collaborators in the murder of the monarch, who are currently at large.

Reacting, the Ebonyi State Commissioner of Police, Faleye Olaleye, commended the officers for the arrests, assuring the good people of the state that the command would continue in its statutory responsibilities of protecting lives and property and also ensuring that criminals are denied the space to carry out their nefarious activities.

The Star