Tragic Hotel Raid: Enugu Police CP Orders Investigation into Death of Nnaji Izuchukwu ‘Stone’

The Enugu State Police Command has launched a full probe into the death of Nnaji Izuchukwu (‘Stone’) during an Anti-Cultism unit raid at Bull Hotel, Asata. Read the official police account and public response.

The Enugu State Police Command has initiated a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Nnaji Izuchukwu, popularly known as “Stone,” who was shot during an intelligence-led operation at Bull Hotel in the Asata area of Enugu.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, psc, mspsp, smicm, has directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Intelligence Department (SID) to conduct a thorough inquiry to establish the exact facts and determine whether the police operation and firearm usage complied with established operational standards and laws.

The Police Account of the Hotel Raid

• According to an official press statement released by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, operatives from the Anti-Cultism Section of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) acted on credible intelligence to raid Bull Hotel in Asata:

  • Targeted Suspect: The operation targeted Nworie Chidera Kelvin, alias “Akidi,” an alleged high-profile drug peddler and member of the Vikings Confraternity who has been linked to cases involving unlawful firearm possession and charged in absentia.

  • Arrests & Recoveries: Police arrested “Akidi” along with nine other male and female suspects aged between 17 and 28. Items recovered from the scene included quantities of suspected “loud” cannabis, a digital weighing scale, and ₦43,400 in cash.

  • The Fatal Confrontation: Police state that during the raid, Nnaji Izuchukwu (“Stone”) and another suspect attempted to escape by jumping through a window. According to police reports, when an operative pursued them, both suspects allegedly confronted the officer and attempted to disarm him. In the ensuing struggle, the firearm discharged, fatally wounding Nnaji, while the second suspect escaped.

  Nnaji was rushed to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead. His body has been deposited in the mortuary pending an autopsy.

  

  Protests and Call for Calm

  Following the incident, public outcry and protests emerged in parts of Enugu as associates and local youths questioned the police account of the shooting.

  Recognizing the tension surrounding the incident, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa urged members of the public to remain calm and assured that the State Intelligence Department’s review will ensure justice, transparency, and accountability.