The father of former Deputy Governor of Kelechi Igwe has been killed by suspected kidnappers, the police have confirmed.
The victim, Francis Igwe, was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area.
Police authorities said the monarch was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while travelling to church.
Confirming the development in a statement issued on Friday, the Police Public Relations Officer in Ebonyi State, Joshua Ukandu, said security operatives immediately commenced a manhunt for the perpetrators after the abduction was reported.
Ukandu explained that the use of intelligence gathering and technical resources led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be linked to the crime.
According to him, the suspects confessed during questioning that the traditional ruler had been killed on March 2.
“They also agreed to take operatives to their hideout and assist in locating the remains of the monarch,” the statement said.
However, the police spokesman disclosed that while approaching the location, other members of the gang opened fire on the operatives.
He said the officers responded with superior firepower, forcing the criminals to retreat during the exchange of gunfire.
“In the process, one of the suspects was neutralised, while others fled the scene,” he added.
Ukandu further stated that seven more suspects were subsequently apprehended, increasing the number of persons arrested in connection with the incident to nine.
He noted that a locally fabricated pistol was recovered during the operation.
The police also confirmed that the body of the slain monarch had been recovered and deposited at a morgue for autopsy.
The arrested suspects remain in police custody as investigations continue, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of the gang who escaped.
Ukandu added that the suspects would be arraigned in court after investigations are completed.
