Odita Sunday 
The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended a member of a suspected syndicate involved in the abduction and subsequent murder of a six-year-old girl. According to a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, operatives from the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) in Awkuzu arrested 28-year-old Friday Akonobi during the early hours of January 17, 2026. The arrest followed the receipt of credible intelligence regarding the disappearance and death of Miss Ozioma Nwankwo, who was kidnapped on May 10, 2025, from the Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
During police interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to the crime, explaining that he acted alongside four accomplices who remain at large. Akonobi stated that after the abduction, the child was transported to Enugu State and handed over to a native doctor identified as Obieze Ezeani, commonly known by the aliases “Edey Play” or “Edey Show.” The suspect further alleged that he and his partners functioned as agents for the native doctor, who reportedly paid them ₦1 million for every victim they delivered.
SP Ikenga confirmed that the Enugu State Police Command has already taken the alleged native doctor into custody. The case has gained significant public traction and visibility, particularly following the circulation of related videos on various social media platforms. The police spokesperson assured the public that an intensive manhunt is currently underway to track down the remaining fugitives involved in the syndicate.
The Command emphasized its resolve to ensure that every individual connected to this horrific crime faces the full weight of the law. SP Ikenga added that the police will continue to provide updates to the public as the investigation into the syndicate’s activities progresses.
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