In a dramatic early morning operation, operatives of the Enugu State Police Command, in collaboration with Neighbourhood Watch personnel and vigilant community members, rescued a 13-year-old girl from the clutches of suspected ritual killers in Umuojor village, Ishiagu community, Ezeagu Local Government Area.

The operation, which took place at about 3:15 a.m. on May 27, led to the arrest of three male suspects identified as Uche Kingsley Agumba (33), Ilo Nweze Onyedikachi (36), and Ejike Odinwankpa (38). The prime suspect, a native doctor known as High Chief Levi Onyeka Obu, popularly called “Ezeani” and “E-Dey-Play-E-Dey-Show,” fled the scene and is currently at large.

According to a statement by SP Daniel Ndukwe, Police Public Relations Officer, the suspects allegedly kidnapped the young girl for ritual murder, and the police acted just in time to save her from certain death. During the operation, police also made a gruesome discovery of two decomposing corpses a male and a female—buried in a concrete-sealed pit inside an uncompleted building used as a shrine by the fleeing native doctor.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased victims were murdered and buried by the suspects for ritual purposes, and the rescued girl was moments away from suffering a similar fate.

In response, the Enugu State Government has demolished the buildings used by the suspect for the ritual activities in accordance with existing laws.

Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, who visited the crime scene, lauded the swift and coordinated efforts of the police, local security groups, and the community. He has ordered the Command’s Tactical Squads and Intelligence Units to intensify the manhunt for the fleeing suspect and other accomplices, assuring that no stone will be left unturned until justice is served.

The Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, urging citizens to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in their communities.

Signed:

SP Daniel Ndukwe, anipr, mnisma

Police Public Relations Officer

Enugu State Command

GRA,E nuguM

ay 28, 2025