The Anambra State Police Command has announced the arrest of 26-year-old Ugochukwu Uzor, a suspected notorious armed robber and gang leader accused of participating in the abduction and killing of Hon. Azuka Justice, a member of the Anambra State House of Assembly.
Police spokesman, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Wednesday in Awka, noting that Uzor was captured during a major Rapid Response Squad (RRS) operation in Ogbaru Local Government Area on December 8.
Ikenga said operatives apprehended the suspect after a fierce confrontation at Iyowa Odekpe, during which Uzor sustained serious injuries. A locally made Beretta pistol and 11 rounds of ammunition were recovered from him.
Describing the suspect as a “dangerous criminal with a long history of violent offences,” Ikenga noted that officers also found disturbing tattoos on Uzor’s body bearing the inscriptions “No Forgiveness” and “No Mercy,” which they say reflect his hardened criminal mindset.
According to police, Uzor confessed during interrogation to leading multiple criminal gangs operating across Anambra and neighbouring states.
He also admitted involvement in the abduction and murder of Hon. Azuka Justice on December 24, 2024.
Hon. Azuka, who represented Onitsha North I Constituency under the Labour Party, was abducted in Onitsha while returning home on Ugwunaobankpa Road.
His kidnapping occurred less than a year after he reclaimed his seat through a court ruling.
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In February 2025, the lawmaker’s decomposing body was discovered near the 2nd Niger Bridge, sparking widespread outrage and renewed concerns about insecurity in the state.
Azuka’s killing was condemned as a direct assault on democracy and heightened calls for tougher measures against kidnapping and armed robbery networks.
Ikenga said Uzor’s arrest marks a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to dismantle violent gangs across the state. He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to support law enforcement with credible information.
Security agencies say investigations are ongoing with additional arrests expected.