Police begin manhunt for chief, armed group over triple murder

The Delta State Police Command has said that the command has activated a full-scale manhunt for Chief Jerry Nkeeshe, the Owelle of Onicha-Olona, and members of his armed group over the alleged attack that claimed the lives of three youths on November 24, 2025 near ‘B’ Division, Asaba.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, said, “Preliminary investigations reveal that the said chief allegedly led a group of vigilantes and suspected cult members, some brazenly disguised in Army camouflage, to a parcel of land at Okwe community along the Asaba–Onitsha Road in a deliberate attempt to lay claim to the property.”

“The group proceeded to enforce an unauthorised quit notice, without a court order. Their illegal operation encountered resistance, resulting in a violent confrontation,” the statement said.

“The armed group allegedly opened fire indiscriminately, causing severe gunshot injuries to three youths, who were later confirmed dead while receiving treatment at the hospital.”

Following the attack, the Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, deployed tactical teams, intelligence operatives, and specialised investigators to track, identify, and arrest all individuals involved.

CP Abaniwonda condemned the act as “an unprovoked, reckless, and brazen display of lawlessness that will not be tolerated under any guise.”

He also urged residents of Onicha-Olona, Asaba, and neighbouring communities to assist the ongoing manhunt.

“The Command will not relent until every perpetrator of the violence, irrespective of title, influence, or backing, is apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law,” the CP said.

The CP added that normalcy has been restored in the area and that “sustained surveillance, intelligence-led patrols, and coordinated search operations are in progress to prevent any further breakdown of law and order.”

In a related incident, PUNCH Online reported that the Delta State Police Command arrested three suspected armed robbers and recovered ammunition in Asaba.