The Anambra State Police Command has arrested four additional suspects in connection with the murder of three Cameroonian nationals in the state.
The latest arrests were confirmed in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga. The police said the suspects were picked up on February 13, 2026, during an operation in Nando community in Anambra East Local Government Area.
According to the statement, the suspects are all male. They were identified as Chukwuemeka Emmanuel, also known as “Ugoebenajah,” aged 27, who is said to be a chief priest of a shrine; Nwabunne Bright, 27; Chinecherem Chiama, 21; and Michael Ekwunife, 38.
Police operatives also recovered weapons and other items during the operation. These include two pump-action guns, one locally made Beretta pistol, one machete, assorted charms, expanded ammunition, ten live cartridges and five live 9mm rounds.
The command said investigations are still ongoing and that efforts are being made to arrest the fleeing gang leader and other members of the group.
The police explained that the new arrests followed the confession of two earlier suspects who are already in custody over the killing of the three foreigners.
Based on information provided during interrogation, operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) Awkuzu moved to a shrine in Nando community believed to be linked to the suspects.
According to the police account, about 30 able-bodied men were seen gathered at the shrine when officers arrived. The statement said that on sighting the police team, some of the armed men opened fire.
During the exchange of gunfire, the prime suspect identified as Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, a native of Oroma Etiti Anam, reportedly escaped with other gang members. The police said some of the fleeing suspects may have sustained bullet wounds during the clash.
One of the arrested suspects was said to have been hit in the thigh during the gun battle. He was taken to a hospital and is currently receiving treatment under police watch.
The command described the operation as successful, noting that dangerous weapons were recovered from the scene. The suspects in custody are now undergoing further interrogation to help track down other members of the gang.
The case began after three Cameroonian nationals were reportedly killed in Anambra State under circumstances that shocked residents and raised concerns among foreign communities living in the area.
Although full details of how the victims were murdered have not yet been made public, police authorities have described the act as a serious crime that will not go unpunished.
Anambra State, located in the South-East region of Nigeria, is known for its strong commercial activities. Many foreign nationals, including traders from neighbouring countries like Cameroon, live and do business in the state.
Over the years, the state has experienced security challenges ranging from armed robbery and cult-related violence to kidnapping and attacks on security personnel. In response, the police and other security agencies have stepped up operations in several communities.
The Rapid Response Squad in Awkuzu has played a key role in special operations aimed at tracking criminal gangs and responding quickly to distress calls. The latest operation in Nando is one of such efforts.
The recovery of firearms, including pump-action guns and a locally made pistol, highlights the level of weapons in the hands of criminal groups. Pump-action guns are commonly used in violent crimes because of their power and ease of use.
Residents of Nando and nearby communities were said to have expressed relief over the arrests, although some also voiced concern about the gun battle that took place in their area.
A community leader, who asked not to be named, said the presence of armed men in the area had caused fear among villagers. He called on security agencies to sustain patrols and ensure that those who escaped are quickly captured.
In its statement, the Anambra State Police Command said it remains committed to ensuring the safety of all residents, including foreigners living in the state.
The command assured the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the fleeing gang leader, Uchenna Mmaduamaka Nicholas, and other members of the group.
“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,” the statement said.
The police also promised to keep the public informed about further developments in the case.
The murder of foreign nationals can have wider effects on Nigeria’s image and relations with neighbouring countries. Observers say a thorough investigation and prosecution of those responsible will help reassure both residents and the international community.
For now, the four newly arrested suspects remain in custody as investigations continue. The police say they are determined to bring all those involved in the killing of the three Cameroonians to justice.
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