The Special Tactical Squad–Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) of the Nigeria Police Force has neutralised a suspected bandit kingpin, Ojiogu Elumah Martin, popularly known as “Acid”, during an operation in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State.
The operation, conducted at about 1:30 a.m. on August 6, 2026, also led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, three magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition.
According to the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the operation was carried out by STS-FID operatives led by ACP Victor Ogbeide Godfrey, following the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu.
The police said operatives stormed “Acid’s” hideout after gathering intelligence on the activities of his alleged criminal group. However, upon sighting the officers, the suspect allegedly opened fire, leading to a gun battle that lasted several hours.
The operatives eventually neutralised the suspect, while other members of the group reportedly escaped into the forest.
The Force said preliminary investigations linked “Acid” to a criminal group allegedly responsible for several killings and other violent crimes in Ohaji/Egbema and neighbouring communities between 2024 and 2026.
The group is also being investigated over the April 10, 2026 killing of HRH Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme, Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom, and five other persons along the Asa/Awara Road in Ohaji/Egbema.
The other victims were identified as Amadi Uchechukwu Emmanuel, a traditional leader of Achia; Onyivara Maduabuchi Jornadad, a cabinet chief of Ochia; Gift Broaddic; Abraham Lincoln; and Otor Benjamin.
Police said “Acid” had been identified as the suspected leader of the group allegedly linked to the attack.
The Force further disclosed that four suspects had earlier been arrested and two other members of the group neutralised. One of those arrested was Chinwendo Mirabe, alias “K2”.
According to the police, information obtained following K2’s arrest allegedly linked “Acid” to the May 12, 2026 killing of Emeka Ebere Nwaele, who was reportedly suspected by the gang of providing information that helped the police arrest one of its members.
The group is also being investigated over several other killings recorded between 2024 and 2026, as well as the July 10, 2026 attack on the business premises of Mr ThankGod Terry, where the shop was allegedly set ablaze.
The Nigeria Police Force assured residents of Ohaji/Egbema and the general public that efforts were ongoing to apprehend the fleeing members of the group.
The Force urged members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in tracking the suspects and preventing further criminal activities.
Investigation is ongoing.
