Police neutralize bandit kingpin 'Acid' in Imo gun duel

Nigerian police have eliminated a suspected high-profile criminal leader, Ojiogu Martin, known as “Acid,” during a fierce gun battle in Imo State. Operatives of the Special Tactical Squad–Force Intelligence Department (STS-FID) engaged Martin and his gang in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, leading to his death.

The police reported recovering an AK-47 rifle, three magazines, and 56 rounds of live ammunition from the hideout of the alleged gang leader. Preliminary investigations suggest that "Acid" led a criminal syndicate implicated in numerous killings and other violent acts across Ohaji/Egbema and surrounding communities between 2024 and 2026.

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Acid was allegedly the leader of a criminal group linked to several killings and other violent crimes in Ohaji/Egbema and nearby communities between 2024 and 2026.

The operation, which occurred in the early hours of August 6, 2026, was authorized by the Inspector-General of Police and led by Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Victor Ogbeide Godfrey. According to CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, the suspect opened fire upon sighting the operatives, triggering a prolonged gun duel that resulted in his neutralization.

This action follows previous successes by the STS-FID, which had already arrested four suspects and neutralized two other members of the group. The police are continuing their investigation into the group's activities, linking them to several other killings and an attack on a business premises where a shop was allegedly set on fire. The investigation also includes the alleged killing of Emeka Ebere Nwaele by "Acid" on May 12, 2026, reportedly due to suspicion of providing information to the police.

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At about 1:30 a.m. on August 6, 2026, the operatives stormed the hideout of Ojiogu Elumah Martin, alias “Acid”, in Ohaji/Egbema. When the suspect saw the police operatives, he opened fire. A gun battle followed and lasted for several hours. The operatives eventually neutralised the suspect.