The Anambra State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of Bishop Chinedu Clarence James of End-Time Reconciliation Ministries, Asaba, Delta State, following the recovery of his stolen Toyota Land Cruiser and the arrest of two suspects linked to the crime.
The development comes under the new spirit of promoting community policing and proactive crime-fighting across the country, driven by the leadership and directives of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who has consistently charged state commands to respond swiftly to violent crimes and strengthen intelligence-led operations.
The incident occurred on 12 May 2026, when the bishop was reportedly abducted and shot dead at the scene during an attack in Delta State. His assailants thereafter fled with his Toyota Land Cruiser,triggering a multi-state intelligence-led investigation.
According to the Anambra command , the breakthrough came after credible intelligence was received in the early hours of today indicating that the stolen vehicle was being moved into Anambra State for possible sale.
This prompted a coordinated special operation led by the Commander of the Intelligence Response and Rapid Response Unit (IRRT), CSP Orede C. Matthew, under the Anambra State Police Command.
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, operatives tracked the movement of the Toyota Land Cruiser and monitored suspected contacts linked to the disposal network of the stolen vehicle.
Preliminary investigation revealed that one of the suspects, Uchenna Nicolas, allegedly confessed that he was recently employed about two weeks before the incident and became involved after the crime was committed.
He further disclosed that he contacted his cousin, Uchenna Igwe, who resides in Onitsha, to assist in sourcing a buyer for the Toyota Land Cruiser. Police sources said this communication became a key lead that helped operatives close in on the suspects.
Upon arrival in Onitsha, operatives moved in after confirming that the suspects were actively attempting to sell the stolen Toyota Land Cruiser. The police intercepted them at the scene and immediately arrested both suspects.
The Anambra State Police Command Public Relations Office confirmed the arrest and recovery, describing it as a swift and intelligence-driven operation that prevented the disposal of critical evidence.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and swift action, describing the operation as a significant breakthrough in ongoing investigations.
He assured that the command is intensifying efforts to track down other members of the criminal network involved in the kidnapping, murder, and trafficking of the stolen vehicle.
Police authorities added that preliminary findings suggest a wider syndicate may be involved, and investigations are ongoing to establish full operational links and motives behind the attack.
The command reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all those responsible for the crime are arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
