Nine Arrested for Kidnapping and Killing Ebonyi Monarch

The Ebonyi State Police Command arrested nine suspects linked to the kidnapping and murder of traditional ruler Ez Franci Igw, who was the father of former Deputy Governor Kelechi Igw. The police confirmed the arrests in a press release on March 6, 2026, following an intensive operation that began after the monarch was abducted on March 1, 2026.

The operation involved deploying technical intelligence assets to rescue the kidnapped monarch. During interrogations, two suspects reportedly confessed to the monarch's killing on March 2, 2026, and voluntarily guided police to the gang's hideout, where they assisted in recovering the monarch's remains.

However, during the police operation, gang members allegedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle in which some hoodlums were neutralized while others fled. Seven additional suspects were later arrested, and a locally made pistol was recovered.

The late monarch's remains were deposited in a morgue for autopsy, and the suspects are currently in custody as efforts continue to apprehend other fleeing gang members.