The Anambra State Police Command has said that its operatives have successfully rearrested Ikemefuna Ossai, the suspect who escaped after he was alleged of involvement in the kidnapping and gruesome murder of the late Hon. Justice Azuka.
Before he was kidnapped and murdered, Hon. Azuka was a member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.
In a statement on Tuesday, May 13, the Command’s spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that the rearrest followed a painstaking and intelligence-led operation.
The PPRO stated: “The suspect, who had previously escaped from custody, was tracked across multiple states within Nigeria, even to 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 in the leg in the process.
“The Police Command, in its continued commitment to transparency and accountability, has briefed relevant stakeholders, including the family of the late lawmaker and the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly.”
The PPRO noted that the Commissioner of Police acknowledged and expressed regret over the operational lapses that led to the suspect’s earlier escape, adding however that 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,” the statement further read.
