Gunmen who abducted the father of former Ebonyi State Deputy Governor Kelechi Igwe have killed the elderly monarch, police have confirmed.

The victim, Francis Igwe, was the traditional ruler of Ndufu-Alike in Ikwo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State before his death.

According to the police, the monarch was abducted on March 1, 2026, while on his way to church.

Confirming the development on Friday, the state Police Public Relations Officer, Joshua Ukandu, said operatives launched an intensive manhunt immediately after the abduction was reported.

He said the deployment of technical and intelligence assets led to the arrest of two suspects believed to be members of the kidnapping gang.

During interrogation, the suspects reportedly confessed that the monarch had been killed on March 2.

“They further volunteered to lead operatives to their hideout and assist in recovering the monarch’s remains,” the police statement said.

However, while approaching the hideout, other members of the gang allegedly opened fire on the police team.

Ukandu said the operatives responded with superior firepower and subdued the attackers during the gun battle.

“In the course of the confrontation, one of the hoodlums was neutralised, while others fled the scene,” he added.

The police spokesman confirmed that seven additional suspects were later arrested, bringing the total number of suspects in custody to nine.

A locally made pistol was also recovered during the operation.

The remains of the slain monarch have been recovered and deposited in a morgue for autopsy, while investigations continue.

Police said efforts were ongoing to arrest other fleeing gang members and that the suspects in custody would be charged in court after investigations are completed.