The father of a former Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe, who was recently abducted, has been confirmed dead after being killed by his captors.
The deceased, Francis Igwe, was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area before his tragic death.
Reports indicate that he was abducted on Sunday, March 1, 2026, while travelling to church within the Ndufu-Alike community. Armed men riding on a motorcycle reportedly intercepted his vehicle, forced him out, and took him to an unknown location.
Following the report of the incident, police operatives launched an intensive search operation. Through intelligence and technical tracking, two individuals suspected to be members of the kidnapping gang were arrested.
During questioning, the suspects allegedly confessed that the monarch had already been killed on March 2. They also agreed to lead security operatives to the group’s hideout and assist in locating the remains.
However, as the police team approached the suspected hideout, other members of the gang reportedly opened fire on the officers. Security operatives returned fire and overpowered the attackers during the exchange.
In the confrontation, one of the criminals was killed while several others escaped from the scene.
Authorities later arrested seven more suspects connected to the crime, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine. A locally made pistol was also recovered during the operation.
The body of the slain traditional ruler has since been recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy.
Police authorities confirmed that the suspects remain in custody while efforts continue to track down other fleeing members of the gang. They added that the suspects will be charged in court after investigations are completed.
