Police in Anambra State have arrested 26-year-old Ugochukwu Uzor, a suspected member of the gang linked to the abduction and murder of Justice Azuka, a member of the State House of Assembly.
Gunmen kidnapped Azuka on Christmas Eve last year, and his body was discovered in February at the foot of the Second Niger Bridge, amid reports that ransom had been paid.
Police spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga announced on Wednesday that operatives apprehended Uzor in Iyiowa Odekpe, Ogbaru LGA, after a fierce gun battle.
Ikenga described the arrest as “a significant breakthrough in the fight against violent crime.”
According to Ikenga, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, nabbed the suspect on December 8, 2025, during a major offensive operation.
Officers recovered a locally made Beretta pistol and eleven rounds of live ammunition from the scene.
Police identified Uzor as a hardened criminal with a long record of violent offenses.
The suspect bore large tattoos reading “No Forgiveness” and “No Mercy,” which officers said signaled his ruthless disposition.
During interrogation, Uzor allegedly confessed to leading multiple criminal gangs operating across Anambra and neighbouring states.
He also admitted to participating in the abduction and killing of Azuka on December 24, 2024—a crime that sparked statewide outrage.
Ikenga said the arrest would help police dismantle the wider criminal networks terrorizing the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue supporting law enforcement.
Ikenga listed the control room line 07039194332 and the PPRO number 08039334002 for confidential reports on criminal activity.
