Crime
Police Launch Manhunt For Issele-Azagba Ex-Convict Over Deadly Otulu Invasion
The Nigerian Police have initiated a manhunt for Mr. Okwudili Marshal, also known as “Marsha,” following a violent invasion of Otulu Ogwashi-Uku that led to the deaths of several community members.
According to sources within Otulu, Mr. Marshal, who was recently released from prison, has been systematically encroaching on Otulu Ogwashi-Uku land with the aid of armed thugs and cultists.
The invasion, which took place on the 29th of August, was allegedly orchestrated by Marshal with the intent of forcibly removing the traditional chief of the community to seize control of the community’s farmlands.
During the attack, a member of the local vigilante group, Mr. Williams Eboji, was fatally shot.
Reports indicate that the Nigerian Police had already begun investigating Marshal’s activities several weeks prior to the incident, following directives from the Inspector General of Police.
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The Zone 5 Assistant Inspector General had been tasked with probing the persistent invasions and criminal activities led by Marshal.
Police sources confirm that Marshal had been out on administrative bail following a petition against him for threats and attempted murder.
Despite multiple court injunctions prohibiting his unlawful actions, including the destruction of farmlands and intimidation of innocent farmers, Marshal has continued his illegal land-grabbing activities.
Mr. Innocent Okafor, an elder in the Otulu community, confirmed the incident.
He stated, “Marshal has been repeatedly driving farmers off their lands and selling their properties.
He added: “He hails from Issele-Azagba, a different local government area, and is notorious for land-grabbing. He has already served time in prison. Everything that has occurred in Otulu Ogwashi-Uku in recent months can be traced back to his illegal activities. We urge the Inspector General, who is already aware of his actions, to bring this man to justice so that peace can be restored to our community. We commend our Chief, Anthony Enurah, for consistently reporting these incidents to the police and warning law enforcement about Marshal’s activities.”
Efforts to reach Marshal for comments were unsuccessful.
Police sources revealed that he fled from his residence last week during an attempted arrest.
However, two of his associates have been apprehended, and efforts are ongoing to capture other members of his gang.