Man Sentenced to Death for Kidnapping and Robbery in Imo

The Imo State High Court in Owerri sentenced 34-year-old Johnbosco Chidera Ashiegbu to death by hanging after finding him guilty of armed robbery and kidnapping. The presiding judge, Hon. Justice C.N.

Akowundu, noted that Ashiegbu was part of a gang responsible for a series of crimes in Imo and Abia states. He was arrested in 2024 along the Okigwe Road in Owerri with a stolen vehicle.

During interrogation, Ashiegbu confessed to his involvement in armed robberies and hostage-taking operations. One notable incident involved the abduction of Mr. Rex Edwin Achiefula and his wife, where the couple was robbed of $2,800, and the husband was held hostage for six days before being released after a ransom payment.

The court heard that Ashiegbu had a history of changing ownership of stolen vehicles, including gifts to family members. Despite his defense counsel's plea for leniency, citing his role as a family breadwinner, the judge emphasized Ashiegbu's lack of remorse throughout the trial.