Shock in Ekwulobia as Man Allegedly Murders Mother Over Cassava Proceeds; 12 Arrested in Orumba Drug Bust

 

Ekwulobia, Anambra State — A community in Anambra State has been thrown into deep mourning and disbelief following a tragic incident involving the brutal killing of a 68-year-old woman, Mrs. Dorathy Anyaji, allegedly at the hands of her own son. The suspect, 49-year-old Nnamdi Anyaji, is currently in police custody after reportedly attempting to take his own life shortly after the gruesome act.

According to a statement released by the Anambra State Police Command, the incident took place in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area. Preliminary investigations indicate that the motive behind the heinous act stemmed from a heated disagreement between the suspect and his mother over financial matters related to their cassava business. The suspect allegedly accused his mother of dishonesty in the handling of money realized from the trade, which escalated into violence.

Speaking on the matter, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that officers recovered an axe believed to have been used in the attack from the scene. The suspect was arrested shortly after and is being kept under tight surveillance in custody to prevent any attempt at self-harm.

“This is a deeply troubling case. A mother has lost her life in the most horrific manner, and the primary suspect is her own son. Our officers responded swiftly to the scene, recovered the suspected weapon — an axe — and apprehended the suspect, who had attempted suicide,” SP Ikenga said.

He further noted that the suspect is undergoing psychological evaluation and will face the full weight of the law once investigations are concluded. The community of Ekwulobia remains shaken, as neighbors and locals struggle to come to terms with the tragedy.

“This is not something we ever expected from Nnamdi. He and his mother always worked together at the farm. To imagine that money would lead to such a thing... it’s heartbreaking,” said a resident who preferred to remain anonymous.

While the police continue their investigation into the murder, another major breakthrough was achieved in Orumba North Local Government Area, where law enforcement operatives dismantled a suspected drug syndicate.

In a targeted raid, twelve young men between the ages of 20 and 29 were arrested for alleged involvement in the consumption and distribution of illicit drugs. The suspects were apprehended during a clampdown on what authorities described as a "criminal drugs camp" notorious for its illegal operations and influence over youth in the area.

The suspects, identified as Ifeanyi Bernard, Emmanuel Ugwu, Thankgod Kelechi, Umeh Chidera, Aguiyi Onyeka, Onyeka Martin, Festus Ihezie, Chibundu Nicholas, Solomon Obiefule, Chibundu Daniel, Neke Shedrack, and Nwazufu Kingsley, were found in possession of dried leaves suspected to be Indian hemp and other controlled substances.

SP Ikenga noted that the twelve suspects have been handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for further investigation and prosecution.

“This is part of our ongoing effort to rid Anambra State of the menace of drug abuse and trafficking. We are working closely with NDLEA to ensure these suspects face justice and that this criminal network is completely dismantled,” Ikenga stated.

The Anambra State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state. SP Ikenga urged residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activities to law enforcement.

As the state grapples with the dual tragedies of domestic violence and drug-related criminality, many are calling for deeper social intervention, including mental health support, community sensitization on conflict resolution, and youth engagement programs to curb rising vices.

Both cases remain under investigation, and the authorities assure the public that justice will be served in accordance with the law.