The Anambra State Police Command has arrested five men over the kidnap and murder of Chinedu Echezona, recovering his remains, vehicle and ₦5 million ransom allegedly collected by the suspects.

The suspects were arrested on November 12, 2026, at Omoba Phase II, Nkpor, Onitsha, following intelligence-led investigations by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu.

The arrested suspects were identified as Chidozie Francis, 24; Kosisọchukwu Eziani, 28; Akachukwu Maduabuchi, 22; Chibuzor Onurah, 29; and Echezona Ude, 22.

According to the police, preliminary investigations showed that Echezona was kidnapped in the early hours of January 29, 2026. The kidnappers reportedly demanded a ransom of ₦20 million, while initial efforts by investigators, including operations in a neighbouring state, failed to secure a breakthrough.

During interrogation, the suspects allegedly confessed to participating in the abduction. They reportedly admitted collecting ₦5 million as ransom before killing the victim. They also disclosed that two firearms were used in carrying out the operation.

The police said the suspects provided information that led operatives to the location where Echezona's remains had been concealed. At about noon on November 14, officers recovered the remains and deposited them in a mortuary for preservation and forensic examination.

Other items recovered include the victim's black Honda CR-V Jeep with registration number YAB 220 DM and the ₦5 million ransom allegedly received by the suspects.

The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, directed investigators to intensify efforts to recover the two firearms allegedly used in the crime and establish the full circumstances surrounding the killing.

He commended the RRS operatives for sustaining the investigation despite the months that had passed since the victim's abduction, stressing that the case had not been abandoned.

The police commissioner also reaffirmed the command's commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring that those responsible for violent crimes face justice. He assured residents that intelligence-led policing would remain central to efforts to protect lives and property across the state.

The police statement was issued on November 15, 2026, by the Command's Public Relations Officer, SP Ikenga Tochukwu.