Enugu state Police Arrest Two Oruku Community Murder

In a significant breakthrough, the Enugu State Police Command has apprehended two individuals, Donatus Ani, known as “Eneniyi,” and Chidiebere Ani, alias “Mpempe,” for their alleged involvement in the murder of Mr. Ejike Nnaji in Oruku, Nkanu East Local Government Area. The arrests were executed by the Anti-Kidnapping Unit on January 12, 2025, at the suspects’ residence in Akpuoga, following actionable intelligence.

The tragic incident occurred on December 14, 2024, when Mr. Nnaji was ambushed and fatally shot at the Eziobodo area of Oruku. His body was subsequently disposed of in a well within an abandoned property, and his mobile phone and motorcycle were reportedly stolen by the assailants.

The following day, the Oruku Community Caretaker Committee reported the crime to the Idodo Police Station. Prompt action by the police led to the recovery of Mr. Nnaji’s remains and the transfer of the case to the state command for comprehensive investigation.

Investigations have unveiled that the suspects are part of a larger gang that has terrorized the Oruku community since 2019. This group is allegedly responsible for numerous violent crimes, including homicides, kidnappings for ransom, property destruction, and the unlawful harvesting of local agricultural products.

The internal conflict within the community in Enugu has resulted in significant loss of life and the destruction of over 150 homes between 2019 and 2022.

During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the murder of Mr. Nnaji and implicated other gang members still at large. They identified their leader and financier as Ejike Mba, also known as “Terrorist,” and named accomplices including Chukwuebuka Ogbo, Okechukwu Nwatu (alias “Osinaikuku”), Aloysius Nnaona, Onyeka Ugwu (alias “Dakpada”), and Ifeanyi Charles Okenwa (alias “Nwandumma”).

The suspects disclosed the possession of four AK-47 rifles, allegedly stored with an associate, Okwudili Ani. A police operation to apprehend Okwudili Ani in Umuode Community was unsuccessful, as he evaded capture and remains at large.

The arrested individuals have been formally charged on four counts and arraigned before the Enugu North Magistrate Court. They are currently held at the Enugu Correctional Center pending further legal proceedings. The remains of Mr. Nnaji are preserved in the morgue as investigations continue.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mba of Enugu State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating crime within the state. The recent arrests have provided a measure of relief to the residents of Oruku, who have endured prolonged periods of violence and instability.

Community leaders have expressed gratitude for the swift action taken by law enforcement and have called for the apprehension of the remaining suspects. They also urge a thorough investigation into the origins of the firearms utilized by the gang, emphasizing the necessity for sustained peace and security in the region.

The Enugu State Police Command continues to solicit information from the public that could lead to the capture of the fugitives and dismantling of the criminal network operating within Oruku and its environs. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities promptly.