A wanted bandit kingpin known as “Acid” has been killed during a fierce gun battle with police operatives in Imo State.
The suspect, identified as Ojiogu Elumah Martin, was reportedly confronted by the Special Tactical Squad-Force Intelligence Department.
The operation took place in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area during the early hours of August 6, 2026.
Force Public Relations Officer, Aniete Iniedu, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Sunday.
He said the operation was carried out under the directive of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
According to the police, the operation targeted criminal suspects linked to several violent attacks in the area.
“The operation was part of efforts to arrest those behind the killing of HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, his security guards and other persons.”
Police said operatives stormed Martin’s hideout around 1:30 a.m. when he allegedly opened fire.
A gun battle reportedly followed and continued for several hours before the suspect was neutralised.
“The police recovered one AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition from the scene. Other members of the gang escaped into the forest during the operation,” the police stated.
The police said preliminary findings linked Ojiogu Elumah Martin to a criminal group suspected of several killings.
The alleged crimes reportedly occurred across Ohaji/Egbema and surrounding communities between 2024 and 2026.
Police said they had previously arrested four suspects and neutralised two other members of the group.
One arrested suspect was identified as Chinwendo Mirabe, also known as “K2”.
Investigators are also examining the reported killing of Emeka Ebere Nwaele on May 12, 2026.
Police alleged that Martin suspected Nwaele of providing information that helped officers arrest a gang member.
The group is also being investigated over the killing of Eze Paulinus Ekwueme and five others on April 10, 2026.
Authorities are further examining several other killings and an alleged attack on a business premises in July.
The police said investigations remain ongoing as operatives work to track members who escaped into the forest.
The Nigeria Police Force assured residents of Ohaji/Egbema that efforts would continue to dismantle the criminal network.
The force also appealed for useful information that could help investigators locate the remaining suspects.
