The Anambra State Police Command has re-arrested Ikemefuna Ossai, a suspect linked to the kidnapping and murder of late Onitsha 1 Constituency lawmaker, Justice Azuka. He was re-arrested in Asaba, Delta State, by a team led by Chief Superintendent of Police, Ifeanyi Iburu.

Ossai was first arrested on February 6, following the discovery of Azuka's body, which had been abducted on December 24, 2024. However, he escaped on February 18 alongside another gang member during a police operation in Obosi, Anambra State.

In a press statement released on Tuesday, the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that Ikemefuna Ossai was re-arrested on May 7. The arrest followed a thorough, intelligence-driven operation, with Ossai being tracked across several states in Nigeria and neighboring countries.

The statement read, “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 Justice Azuka, the distinguished Member representing Onitsha 1 Constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly.

“This rearrest 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 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.”

Ikenga stated that the Police Command, in its ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, has informed 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.

“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 added.