The Bayelsa State Police Command has arrested the prime suspect in the murder of estate agent Richard Ekpebu, whose body was discovered in a bush on July 24, 2025.

The suspect, George Idumangi, a native of Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, was arrested in Lagos on Monday, September 22, while attempting to obtain an international passport at the Immigration Office.

According to police reports, the case was assigned to Operation Puff Adder, led by CSP Chris Nwaogbo. The operatives tracked Idumangi across multiple Lagos locations—including Lekki, Ikorodu, Festac, Ikeja, and Orile—before successfully arresting him. During earlier raids, police recovered a bag containing two phones linked to the murder and a T-shirt branded “IYC Tactical Team.”

How the crime unfolded

Investigations revealed that Idumangi conspired with his 23-year-old girlfriend, Victory Benard Henry, and other accomplices. Victory was arrested earlier in Yenagoa, where police recovered a pump-action rifle, cartridges, empty AK-47 magazines, walkie-talkies, and other items.

Victory allegedly lured Ekpebu under the guise of arranging a land sale. The supposed buyer then paid ₦9 million directly into Idumangi’s account. She was reportedly paid ₦1 million for her role.

The scam unraveled when the buyer demanded land documents from Ekpebu, who denied involvement in the payment. Ekpebu confronted Idumangi, warning him not to misrepresent facts. Shortly after, Idumangi and his accomplices—identified as Victor Shadrack (aka Doggy) and another man known as Insurance—allegedly abducted and murdered Ekpebu to cover their tracks.

Police confirm breakthrough

Confirming the arrest, CP Francis Idu stated:

“After painstaking intelligence and law enforcement measures, Mr. George Idumangi, who murdered Mr. Richard Ekpebu at Bayelsa Palm, was arrested this morning in Lagos while trying to flee the country. This was achieved with real intelligence. I am grateful to the noble people of Bayelsa and the Prosperity Government.”

 

The suspect is now in custody as investigations continue, while efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining accomplices.