The Anambra State Police Command has uncovered the circumstances surrounding the gruesome murder of a 56-year-old man, Mr Kelechi Madu, in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.
The development came two days after the deceased was reported missing, following his disappearance after leaving home on the evening of August 17, 2026.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the deceased’s wife reported his disappearance to the police on August 18.
Following the report, police operatives, working with members of the local vigilante group and the deceased’s family, commenced an immediate search and investigation to determine his whereabouts.
However, later that evening, the deceased’s wife returned to the police station in distress after her husband’s body was discovered in a nearby bush at Umuobi, Awkuzu.
Police operatives were subsequently mobilised to the scene, where Madu was found lying lifeless with a deep axe wound to his head.
His remains were evacuated and deposited at a hospital for preservation as investigations commenced.
In the course of the investigation, police arrested the deceased’s friend, 32-year-old Ifeanyi Nwankwo, who allegedly confessed to his involvement in planning and executing the murder.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Nwankwo allegedly obtained money fraudulently from Madu under the guise of helping him acquire a piece of land.
The suspect reportedly plotted to eliminate the deceased in an attempt to conceal the alleged fraudulent transaction and prevent the recovery of the money.
Police said Nwankwo allegedly hired two other persons to carry out the murder.
The Command said the investigation had so far led to the arrest of the alleged mastermind, his friend and two other suspects, while efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend every person connected to the crime.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, directed that the investigation be intensified to ensure that all those involved in the alleged conspiracy and murder are brought to justice.
The Command also assured residents that it would continue to strengthen intelligence-led policing and community partnerships to prevent violent crimes, unravel criminal activities and ensure that suspects face the full weight of the law.
The police urged members of the public to continue providing useful information that could assist security agencies in preventing and solving crimes across the state.
