UPDATE: 38 Suspects arrested in connection with Enugu Priest, Fr. Mathew Eya murder

The Enugu State Police Command says the Command has arrested 38 suspects who are connected with the recent assassination of a Catholic priest of the Nsukka Diocese, Rev. Fr. Mathew Eya.

Fr. Eya was, up until his demise, the parish priest of St. Charles Catholic Church, Eha-Ndiagu, in Nsukka.

Famousreporters.com earlier, reported yesterday about the eruption of commotion in Eha-Alumona–Eha-Ndiagu area of Enugu and the entire State in general, following the gruesome killing of the Cleric.

The priest was said to have been brutally murdered in coldblood by yet-to-be identified gunmen.

Reportedly, the terrific incident took place on the evening of Friday, September 19, 2025 leaving residents awestricken.

According to the Police, the arrests were made following an intensive manhunt for the gunmen who ambushed and killed the priest along the Eha Ndiagu Eha Etiti Road in the Eha Alumona community of Nsukka Local Government Area on September 19, 2025.

The Revd. Father was allegedly attacked and shot dead while returning to his parish from Enugu on Friday evening, September 19, 2025.

According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants suspected to be Fulani herdsmen had been terrorising the area in recent weeks, causing fear and tension among residents.

His sudden death has since sparked outrage, grief, and calls for urgent government action to stem insecurity in Enugu State.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Daniel Ndukwe, said the command was committed to ensuring that justice is served.

“We have arrested 38 suspects linked to the killing of Rev. Fr. Eya, and investigations are ongoing to establish their direct involvement and ensure that all those responsible face the full weight of the law,” he stated.

Ndukwe assured that security operations in the affected areas had been intensified to restore peace and protect residents.

The killing of Fr. Eya has drawn widespread condemnation from both religious and community leaders, who described the act as barbaric and unacceptable.

Many parishioners and locals gathered in mourning, recalling the late priest service and dedication to his community.

Furthermore, the Police advised members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies as efforts continue to bring the perpetrators to justice, while they continue to go about their daily businesses amicably.