The Anambra State Police Command has successfully rearrested Ikemefuna Ossai, a key suspect in the brutal kidnapping and murder of the late Justice Azuka, a former member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha 1 Constituency.
The suspect was captured in Asaba, Delta State, on May 7, 2025, after a detailed and intelligence-driven operation by the police. The operation was led by Ifeanyi Iburu, the former Officer-in-Charge of the Anambra Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), who is now a Chief Superintendent of Police.
Ossai was originally arrested on February 6, 2025, after the body of Justice Azuka was found by security personnel near the Second Niger Bridge. Azuka had been kidnapped on December 24, 2024, and his lifeless body was later discovered, sparking widespread concern across the state.
However, just days later, on February 18, Ossai managed to escape from police custody. He fled with another member of his gang during an operation in Obosi, located in the Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, where they had been brought in to assist in the arrest of another individual suspected to be linked to the crime.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police, confirmed Ossai’s rearrest in a press statement released on Tuesday.
“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 May 7, 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,” the statement noted.
Ikenga also added that the police had briefed the family of the late lawmaker as well as the leadership of the Anambra State House of Assembly. In these discussions, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged the operational shortcomings that had led to Ossai’s earlier escape and expressed regret over the incident.
The police also confirmed that the new intelligence obtained from Ossai is playing a crucial role in ongoing operations. This information is helping to target the remaining members of the criminal network responsible for the kidnapping and murder. Authorities have intensified their search for other fugitives connected to the case.
“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 concluded.
