Get Guardian on GoogleThe Ebonyi State Police Command on Friday confirmed that HRH Eze Francis Igwe, father of former deputy governor Barr. Kelechi Igwe, was killed by his abductors.
In a statement, Police Public Relations Officer SP Joshua Ukandu said multiple arrests have been made, including the kingpin of the kidnapping syndicate.
Following the monarch’s abduction on 1st March 2026, police launched intensive operations using technical and intelligence assets.
Two suspects were arrested and confessed that the monarch had been killed on 2nd March 2026.
They led officers to the gang’s hideout to recover the remains.
However, upon approach, remaining gang members opened fire.
returned fire, neutralising one suspect while others fled.
Subsequently, seven additional suspects were arrested, and a locally made pistol was recovered.
The remains of the late traditional ruler were retrieved and deposited at the morgue for autopsy.
The arrested suspects remain in custody, while efforts continue to apprehend the remaining gang members.
They will face prosecution once investigations conclude.
