Gun Battle in Ohaji/Egbema

Operatives of the Special Tactical Squad–Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) neutralized Ojiogu Elumah Martin, popularly known as “Acid,” during a high-stakes raid in the early hours of August 6. The tactical team stormed the suspect’s hideout in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State at approximately 1:30 a.m.

Upon sighting the operatives, Martin allegedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle that lasted several hours. Following the confrontation, police recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition from the scene. While the kingpin was killed, other members of his gang managed to escape into the surrounding forest.

The Murder of Eze Paulinus Ekwueme

The operation, directed by the Inspector-General of Police and led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Victor Ogbeide Godfrey, follows a long-standing investigation into the killing of HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme. The monarch, who served as Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, was murdered on April 10, 2026, alongside five other individuals along the Asa/Awara Road.

The victims of the attack included Amadi Uchechukwu Emmanuel, a traditional leader; Onyivara Maduabuchi Jornadad, a cabinet chief; Gift Broaddic; Abraham Lincoln; and Otor Benjamin. Reports indicate that the monarch had recently returned to Nigeria after living in the United States for five years. He was allegedly ambushed while returning from a meeting in Ochia toward Owerri.

Criminal Network and Previous Arrests

Preliminary investigations identify "Acid" as the leader of a violent criminal group linked to numerous killings across Ohaji/Egbema and neighboring communities between 2024 and 2026. This recent breakthrough follows the earlier arrest of four suspects, including Chinwendo Mirabe, known as “K2,” and the neutralization of two other alleged gang members.

Information obtained from the arrest of K2 suggested that Martin was also responsible for the May 12, 2026, murder of Emeka Ebere Nwaele, whom he suspected of being a police informant. The group is further implicated in a series of attacks, including the July 2026 arson of a business belonging to Mr. ThankGod Terry and the killings of several other residents between 2024 and 2025.

Commitment to Justice

The Nigeria Police Force has reaffirmed its commitment to flushing out the remaining members of the gang who fled during the August raid. CSP Ani Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer, emphasized that the investigation remains active and that the police are working to ensure all stakeholders in the region are protected from further violence.

Authorities have urged residents of the Ohaji/Egbema area to remain vigilant and provide any information that could lead to the apprehension of the fleeing suspects. The Force maintains that no effort will be spared in bringing the perpetrators to book.

Anyone found to have taken part in the crimes will be brought to justice.

— Nigeria Police Force, Official Statement