The Nigeria police Force (NPF) has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of Emmanuel Nwanneniya, former chairman and land agent of Ikem Nando community in Anambra state, with the arrest of five suspects allegedly linked to the crime.

The arrests followed weeks of intelligence gathering, digital surveillance and coordinated tactical operations by operatives of the force intelligence department’s special tactical squad (sts).

Police said investigations revealed that a restricted veterinary sedative, identified as s.p.l. ketamine hydrochloride 500mg/10ml, was allegedly procured and used in carrying out the murder. Detectives also uncovered what they described as a wider conspiracy connected to a long-running community land dispute.

Investigators said the crisis stemmed from disagreements over the sharing and utilisation of proceeds from the sale of community land. Police said the funds were distributed among the three clans in Ikem nando community, with one clan receiving about N39 million.

While the majority of community members reportedly resolved that the money should be invested in constructing a community hall and other developmental projects, another faction opposed the decision, leading to prolonged disputes, hostility and alleged threats against supporters of the project.

Police said respected elders and community leaders who backed the development initiative became targets of intimidation, with reports of kidnapping threats made before the murder. Although some suspects were earlier invited for questioning and later released after making statements, investigators alleged that tensions continued to escalate until Emmanuel Nwanneniya was killed.

Investigators alleged that the suspects lured the deceased under the pretext of negotiating the purchase of a large expanse of land. Believing he was meeting genuine buyers, Nwanneniya reportedly honoured the invitation.