ANAMBRA SECURITY: UPDATE ON THE ARREST OF THE PRIME SUSPECT INVOLVED IN THE BEHEADING OF A 69-YEAR OLD WOMAN AT UMULERI IN THE YEAR 2024
_As the Command appreciates the assistance of the military and the security stakeholders of Anambra East for this feat, while two other suspects have been arrested and are ready for hand over to the Police_
The Anambra State Police Command wishes to inform the general public, especially Ndi Anambra, of the new revelations following the arrest of the prime suspect involved in the gruesome beheading of a 69-year old woman at Umuleri in 2024.
Preliminary investigation reveals that the murder was connected to a land dispute at Ogwu Nzu. It was gathered that after the victim testified in favour of one of the parties over ownership of the disputed land, the suspect allegedly beheaded her and used her head for ritual purposes in a bid to fortify themselves for the conquest of the land.
Meanwhile, two additional suspects, identified as Mr. Joseph Udezuo (aka Boss) and Chukwuemeka Nworah (aka Odumodu), have also been arrested by local security stakeholders and are awaiting formal handover to the Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, fwc minps PhD, while condemning the senseless and barbaric act, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian Military and the security stakeholders in Anambra East, particularly the Chairman of Anambra East Local Government, Hon. Sir Chinweze Ifeanyichukwu, whose collaboration and timely intelligence led to this major operational breakthrough.
The CP reiterates that land cases are pure civil cases and encourages groups and persons to be patient with the court proceedings rather than resorting to self-help, emphasizing that such actions only lead to avoidable loss of lives and property.
He further reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property across Anambra State, urging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to the Police and other security agencies.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga
Police Public Relations Officer
Anambra State Police Command, Awka
5th October, 2025
