The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a 29-year-old man, Robinson Uche, in connection with the alleged murder of a 42-year-old victim, Shedrack Ogadinma Chukwem, in Etche Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The arrest, which followed months of investigation, has brought new developments to a case that began in December 2025. Police authorities say the suspect has confessed to taking part in the crime and has helped investigators locate the victim’s remains.
According to the police, Uche was arrested on March 6, 2026, by operatives of the Anti-Cultism Unit attached to the Emuohia Annex in Etche.
The operation, officials said, was the result of sustained investigative efforts aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the disappearance and eventual death of the victim.
Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest and said the suspect provided useful information during interrogation.
“The suspect confessed to his involvement in the crime and gave details that helped officers locate the burial site,” she said.
Investigations revealed that the killing took place on December 17, 2025, in the Igbo-Etche area of Rivers State.
According to the police, the suspect told investigators that he and four other individuals were hired by a man identified as Chief Elijah Okere. Their task, he claimed, was to bring the victim to the chief’s palace.
However, the plan did not go as intended. During the encounter, the victim was allegedly shot dead.
Police have not yet confirmed the exact circumstances that led to the shooting, but sources say the situation may have escalated unexpectedly during the attempt to carry out the assignment.
After the killing, the group reportedly moved the victim’s body to a bush in Ekerre-Ugbor, where it was buried in a shallow grave.
The police said Uche later led operatives to the location following his arrest. Officers were able to recover the remains, which have since been deposited at the Military Hospital mortuary for autopsy.
The autopsy is expected to provide further details about the cause of death and help strengthen the case against the suspects.
Police authorities say efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining suspects who are currently at large.
The case has raised concerns about criminal activities in parts of Rivers State, especially involving groups hired to carry out violent acts.
The Commissioner of Police in the state, Olugbenga Adewole Adepoju, assured residents that the command is committed to ensuring justice is served.
“We remain resolute in pursuing all individuals connected to this crime,” he said, adding that no effort would be spared in bringing all those involved to justice.
Rivers State, located in Nigeria’s oil-rich Niger Delta region, has faced security challenges over the years. These include cult-related violence, kidnappings, and disputes linked to local power structures.
The police have set up special units, including anti-cultism teams, to address these issues and improve safety in communities.
Etche Local Government Area, where the incident occurred, is one of several areas where security agencies have increased surveillance in recent times.
Residents have often called for stronger action against criminal groups and better protection for communities.
While police have not released details of reactions from the victim’s family, cases like this often leave communities in shock and fear.
The discovery of a shallow grave months after the incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in tracking down crimes, especially in rural or semi-urban areas.
Community leaders in similar cases have urged residents to report suspicious activities promptly and cooperate with security agencies.
Criminal cases involving murder require thorough investigation to ensure that all those responsible are identified and prosecuted.
The recovery of the victim’s body is seen as a key step in building a strong case.
The Rivers State Police Command has called on members of the public to remain calm and continue to support security agencies.
Authorities say cooperation from residents plays a crucial role in solving crimes and preventing future incidents.
The police also urged anyone with useful information about the remaining suspects to come forward.
As the investigation continues, attention will be on the arrest of the other suspects and the outcome of the autopsy.
The case also highlights the need for continued efforts to address violent crime and improve security across Rivers State.
For now, the arrest of Robinson Uche and the recovery of the victim’s body mark a significant step forward in the pursuit of justice for Shedrack Ogadinma Chukwem.