By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Police Command said it has arrested the prime suspect in the gruesome murder and beheading of a 69-year-old woman, Mrs. Obianuju Akubi, in July of 2024 in Umuleri, Anambra East Local Government Area of Anambra State.

A statement issued by the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the State Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that Police operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), Awkuzu, acting on credible intelligence, stormed Aguleri on October 4, 2025 and arrested the 46-year-old suspect, Obadigbo Emmanuel Anumudu.

According to him, the suspect, who had allegedly been on the run since July 22, 2024, is said to be the mastermind behind the brutal killing that shocked the entire state.

Ikenga explained that the suspect had already confessed to the crime during interrogation and had also mentioned the names of his accomplices.

He added: "The suspect revealed where the victim’s severed head was hidden after the act, while police operatives intensify efforts to apprehend other members of the gang who participated in the murder.

“The suspect is in custody and further investigation is ongoing to ensure that all those involved are brought to justice.”

The Police Spokesman further said that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their intelligence-led efforts and reaffirmed the Command’s determination to rid the state of violent criminals.

The CP further urged residents to remain law-abiding and to continue providing credible information to the police, giving assurance that justice will be served in the case and that safety remains the Command’s top priority.