The Anambra State Police Command said that it has made a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of Bishop Chinedu Clarence James of End-Time Reconciliation Ministries, Asaba, Delta State, following the recovery of his stolen Toyota Land Cruiser and the arrest of two suspects linked to the crime.
P.M.EXPRESS reports that the development comes under renewed efforts to strengthen community policing and proactive crime-fighting across the country.
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has repeatedly directed State Commands to respond swiftly to violent crimes and enhance intelligence-led operations.
According to the Police, the incident occurred on 12th May, 2026, when the Bishop was allegedly abducted and shot dead during an attack in Delta State. His assailants reportedly fled with his Toyota Land Cruiser, prompting a multi-state investigation.
The Anambra Command said the breakthrough followed credible intelligence received indicating that the stolen vehicle was being moved into Anambra State for possible sale.
This led to a coordinated operation led by the Commander of the Intelligence Response and Rapid Response Unit, CSP Orede C. Matthew, under the Anambra State Police Command.
Acting on the intelligence, operatives tracked the movement of the vehicle and monitored suspected contacts linked to a network involved in disposing of stolen vehicles.
Preliminary investigation revealed that one of the suspects, Uchenna Nicolas, allegedly confessed that he was employed about two weeks before the incident and became involved after the crime was committed.
He reportedly told the Police that he contacted his cousin, Uchenna Igwe, who resides in Onitsha, to help find a buyer for the Toyota Land Cruiser.
Police said this communication provided a key lead that helped operatives locate the suspects.
Upon arrival in Onitsha, operatives moved in after confirming that the suspects were actively attempting to sell the vehicle. Both suspects were intercepted and arrested at the scene.
The Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Office confirmed the arrest and recovery, describing the operation as swift and intelligence-driven. The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and said efforts are ongoing to arrest other members of the criminal network.