Operatives of the Anambra State Police Command have re-arrested a kidnap suspect linked to the gruesome murder of a lawmaker in Anambra State, Hon Justice Azuka.
Aziuka, who represented Onitsha South 1 state constituency, was murdered after his captors collected N100 million.
His remains were found around Second Nigeria Bridge two months after he was kidnapped.
Nigerians were, however, jolted when news filtered in that the two of the suspects arrested earlier in connection with the crime escaped.
In what appears to be a reprieve, the state police command's spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga announced on Tuesday that one of the suspects, Ikemefuna Ossai, was re-arrested after a painstaking investigation and undercover job.
"The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the public that its operatives have successfully rearrested one Ikemefuna Ossai, a suspect in the kidnapping and gruesome murder of the late Hon. Justice Azuka.
"This re-arrest followed a painstaking and intelligence-led operation. The suspect, who had previously escaped custody, was tracked across multiple states within Nigeria and even into a neighbouring West African country.
"He was eventually apprehended on 7th May 2025 in Asaba, Delta State.
“Upon sighting the operatives, the suspect attempted to escape arrest but was swiftly subdued and sustained a gunshot wound to the leg in the process," he said.
He disclosed that relevant stakeholders, including the family of the late lawmaker and the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly, have been briefed on the latest development.
According to him, "During the engagement, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged and expressed regret over the operational lapses that led to the suspect's earlier escape.
"Actionable intelligence obtained from the suspect is currently aiding ongoing operations.
“The command has intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining fugitive and dismantle the criminal network responsible for this heinous crime.
"The Anambra State Police Command reiterates its unwavering resolve to bring all perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety and security of Ndi Anambra.”