Operatives of the Imo State Police Command have arrested three individuals found in possession of a human skull in Ogii Community, Okigwe Local Government Area of the state. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, the suspects Patrick Okoere (29), Ifeanyichukwu Anyaemeka (28), and Chukwuemeka Onyekachi (20) were apprehended on Monday, February 3, 2025, following a tip-off from concerned locals.
The trio, all from Amasiri in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, claimed that Patrick’s uncle, Osunta Oko, had requested a human skull to use in a land dispute ritual. Among the items recovered from them were a native hen and white garments.
During interrogation, the suspects said they retrieved the skull from a riverbank in Ogii, an area notorious for kidnappings and disappearances along the Okigwe-Umuahia Expressway.
Manhunt Launched for Alleged Mastermind
DSP Okoye confirmed that a manhunt has been launched for Osunta Oko and any potential accomplices. Additionally, the police have initiated a DNA analysis to determine the identity of the deceased individual whose skull was found.
“The Imo State Police Command is actively pursuing all leads in this case to bring those responsible to justice. A DNA test will help identify the victim,” Okoye stated.
CP Danjuma Reassures Public of Security Measures
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, reassured residents of Imo State of the command’s unwavering commitment to security. He emphasized that justice will be served, and the suspects will be prosecuted upon completion of investigations. He also vowed to intensify security patrols in the Okigwe-Umuahia axis, which has witnessed multiple cases of kidnappings and community displacement due to insurgency.
“The public will be provided with further updates as investigations progress,” Okoye assured.
