By Karen James
Onitsha, Anambra State – The ongoing battle against kidnapping in Anambra State has suffered a major setback following the alleged escape of two prime suspects involved in the abduction and murder of Hon. Justice Azuka, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency.
The suspects, identified as Kevin Ikechukwu Ossai, alias Ikem, and another known as Ocha, reportedly escaped during a police operation to apprehend a suspected receiver of stolen vehicles linked to their gang. The duo was among the five-man group that kidnapped and murdered Hon. Azuka on December 24, 2024, along Ugwunabankpa Road. His lifeless body was later dumped on the Second Niger Bridge in Obosi, Idemili South Local Government Area.
According to sources close to the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS) and Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu, a police operation was underway to arrest a key suspect who allegedly purchased vehicles stolen by the gang. The suspect, however, insisted that he would only surrender if the two kidnappers, Ikem and Ocha, were present.
During the operation, Ocha was reportedly in control of the getaway vehicle, while Ikem was shackled in the front passenger seat. Two SARS operatives sat in the back of the car. As soon as the police sighted the receiver and moved to arrest him, the two officers allegedly jumped out of the vehicle, at which point Ocha and Ikem seized the opportunity to speed off and escape. (This is Story for the gods)
Contrary to police claims that the kidnappers were “neutralized,” sources insist that they fled the scene in the vehicle.
The Onitsha North Elders Forum (ONEF), in a statement signed by Chairman Chief Celestine Onowu Onochie and Secretary Ichie Onwuka Idika, expressed deep concern over the escape, questioning the credibility of the police’s account. They called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident, demanding that the police provide proof if the suspects were indeed neutralized.
ONEF further urged the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) and the Police Service Commission (PSC) to set up a special investigative team to uncover the circumstances surrounding the escape and to ensure the immediate rearrest of the fugitives.
The elders warned that if the suspects were not recaptured within a week, they might regroup and retaliate against the security operatives who initially arrested them.
Government and Security Authorities Urged to Act
The forum also called on Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, and the State House of Assembly to take urgent action to ensure the criminals are apprehended.
This incident has raised concerns over the effectiveness of security operations in the state, particularly in handling high-profile criminal cases. Residents fear that the escape of such dangerous criminals could further embolden kidnappers and armed gangs operating in the region.
As pressure mounts on the authorities, all eyes are on the police to provide answers and take swift action to restore public confidence in the fight against crime in Anambra State.
