Police Kill Wanted Bandit Kingpin ‘Acid’ Linked to Imo Monarch Murder
OWERRI, NIGERIA — Operatives of the Special Tactical Squad of the Force Intelligence Department have killed a notorious bandit leader, Ojiogu Elumah Martin, popularly known as “Acid,” during a fierce gun battle in Imo State.
The high-stakes operation took place at 1:30 AM on August 6, 2024, in the Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area. Acting under the directives of Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu, a team led by Assistant Commissioner of Police Victor Ogbeide Godfrey raided the kingpin’s hideout. Upon sighting the police, Acid opened fire, triggering a gun duel that lasted for several hours. He was fatally wounded during the exchange, while several of his gang members escaped into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds.
Weapons Recovered at the Scene
Following the shootout, the police said a number of heavy weaponry were recovered from the criminal syndicate. These include mix an AK-47 rifle, 3 loaded magazines and 56 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition
Links to the Brutal Murder of US-Returnee Monarch
Security report also linked ‘Acid’ to a string of violent atrocities spanning between 2024 and 2026. Most notable is the April 10 ambush and assassination of His Royal Highness, Eze Barrister Paulinus Ekwueme (Ochia I of Ochia Kingdom).
The traditional ruler had recently returned to Nigeria after spending five years in the United States. He was lured to a meeting and ambushed along the Asa-Awara Road while traveling toward Owerri. That particular attack also claimed the lives of five others
A Two-Year Reign of Terror
Police investigators reveal that Acid’s gang is being investigated for a timeline of targeted killings and arson across Ohaji/Egbema and neighbouring communities. These include the 2024 murders of Chikaire Domandu (alias “Asari”), Chimezie Uchenna, and Ezeugo Umah. Others are the May/June 2025 killings of Nwaugo Ngozi (alias “Igbo”) and Ibo Sunday and the May 12, 2025 execution of Emeka Ebere Nwaele, whom Acid reportedly killed under the suspicion of being a police informant as well as the violent arson attack on the business premises of one ThankGod Terry.
Police Launch Manhunt for Fleeing Gang Members
The Nigeria Police Force confirmed that the ongoing crackdown had already yielded the arrest of four suspects—including top lieutenant Chinwendo Mirabe (alias “K2”)—and the neutralization of two other gang members prior to Acid’s death.
The Police Command is appealing to residents of Ohaji/Egbema and neighboring communities to report individuals treating suspicious gunshot wounds. The Force reiterated its commitment to tracking down the fleeing suspects and bringing all accomplices to justice.
