The Anambra State Police Command has apprehended a 28-year-old man, Friday Akonobi, in connection with the abduction and suspected ritual killing of a six-year-old girl, Ozioma Nwankwo.
The case is reportedly linked to an Enugu-based suspected native doctor, Obieze Ezeani, also known as “Edey Play” or “Edey Show.”
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, Akonobi was arrested on Saturday by operatives of the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu, following credible intelligence.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect, along with four others who are still at large, kidnapped the late Miss Nwankwo from Ikwo Local Government Area in Ebonyi State on May 10, 2025, and delivered her to the alleged native doctor in Enugu,” SP Ikenga said.
The spokesperson added that each member of the syndicate was allegedly paid ₦1 million for every virgin girl handed over.
“The suspect confessed to the crime during interrogation and confirmed that the victim was killed and used for ritual purposes,” he said.
SP Ikenga also disclosed that the alleged native doctor, Obieze Ezeani, has been arrested by the Enugu State Police Command, and his detention has attracted widespread attention following the circulation of videos related to the case on social media.
He assured the public that police efforts to arrest the remaining suspects are ongoing and promised that all involved would face justice.
“We are working tirelessly to ensure that every accomplice is apprehended, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses,” SP Ikenga said.
In a related development, the Anambra State Police also arrested a 26-year-old man, Anikpe Chibuike, in connection with the murder of his girlfriend, Ogechukwu Mmadubugwu, a 35-year-old single mother.
The incident reportedly occurred on December 9, 2025, in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area.
