The Anambra state Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of Bishop Chinedu Clarence James of the End-Time Reconciliation Ministries following the recovery of his stolen Toyota Land Cruiser and the arrest of two suspects linked to the crime.
The breakthrough is coming amid renewed efforts by the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen community policing and intelligence-led operations under the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, who has repeatedly directed commands nationwide to respond swiftly to violent crimes and improve proactive policing strategies.
The cleric was reportedly abducted and shot dead on May 12, 2026, during an attack in Delta state.
His attackers allegedly fled the scene with his Toyota Land Cruiser, prompting a coordinated multi-state investigation.
According to the Anambra state Police Command, the breakthrough followed credible intelligence received in the early hours of Wednesday that the stolen vehicle was being moved into Anambra state for possible sale.
The intelligence reportedly triggered a special operation led by the Commander of the Intelligence Response and Rapid Response Unit (IRRT), CSP Orede C. Matthew, under the state Police command.
Operatives subsequently tracked the movement of the stolen SUV and monitored suspected contacts believed to be linked to a vehicle disposal syndicate.
Preliminary investigations revealed that one of the suspects, Uchenna Nicolas, allegedly confessed that he had only been employed about two weeks before the incident and became involved after the crime had been carried out.
Police sources said the suspect disclosed that he contacted his cousin, Uchenna Igwe, based in Onitsha, to help secure a buyer for the stolen Toyota Land Cruiser.
Investigators said the communication later became a major lead that enabled operatives to trace and arrest the suspects.
Acting on the intelligence, police operatives moved in after confirming that the suspects were actively attempting to sell the vehicle in Onitsha.
Both men were arrested at the scene, while the stolen Toyota Land Cruiser was successfully recovered.
The Police Public Relations Office of the Anambra state command described the operation as swift, intelligence-driven, and crucial in preventing the disposal of key evidence linked to the murder case.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra state, Ikioye Orutugu, commended the operatives for their professionalism and prompt response, describing the arrest and recovery as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.
He further assured that efforts have been intensified to track down other members of the criminal network believed to be connected to the kidnapping, murder, and attempted sale of the stolen vehicle.
Police authorities also noted that preliminary findings indicate the possible involvement of a wider criminal syndicate, adding that investigations are ongoing to establish the full circumstances and motives behind the attack.
The command reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all individuals connected to the crime are apprehended and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
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