The Anambra State Police Command has successfully rearrested Ikemefuna Ossai, a suspect linked to the kidnapping and gruesome murder of Justice Azuka, the Member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.

Spokesperson for the command, Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement yesterday, said the rearrest followed a painstaking and intelligence-led operation. He explained that the suspect had escaped from custody and was tracked across multiple states in 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,” he said.

Ikenga stated that the 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.

“During the engagement, the Commissioner of Police acknowledged and expressed regret over the operational lapses that led to the suspect’s earlier escape.

“Further to this development, 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,” Ikenga added.

He reiterated the command’s commitment to bringing all perpetrators of the crime to justice and ensuring the safety and security of Anambra State residents.