The Anambra Police Command says a new suspect, reportedly responsible for the murder of a nursing student in Alor, Idemili South LGA, is now in jail.
SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), announced this in a statement published in Awka and made accessible to journalists on Saturday.
Ikenga reported that the death of the student, 23-year-old Vivian Chilaka, on June 14 sparked significant public outrage.
He stated that the arrest of the new suspect, Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, 26, exonerated the deceased’s landlord, who had previously been probed by police.
The statement read in part: “The Anambra Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old male suspect, Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, in connection with the murder of Miss Vivian Chilaka.
“The suspect was arrested on September 4, following credible and actionable information received by the command.”
The PPRO also stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly gained access to the building by scaling the fence with a ladder.
He noted that the suspect’s initial intention was to sexually assault the deceased.
“A struggle ensued between him and the deceased, during which he allegedly used a knife to stab her, leading to her death,” the statement added.
It disclosed that the suspect also revealed his involvement in other similar crimes in the community.
“These claims are currently being subjected to thorough investigation and corroboration by the command.
“The command further wishes to clarify that the landlord, who was earlier linked with the incident, has been exonerated following the ongoing investigation.
“The command, therefore, urges members of the public to disregard any earlier suspicion against him,” Ibekwe added.
He stated that the suspect would remain in police custody while the investigation was ongoing, particularly into his alleged involvement in other related criminal activities.
The police spokesman reported the Commissioner of Police (CP) in the state, Nnanna Ama, as having congratulated the residents of Alor “for their cooperation, patience, and support throughout the period of the investigation.”
“The CP particularly appreciates members of the community, who provided timely and useful information that contributed to this significant breakthrough,” he stated.
Ibekwe also quoted the CP as saying that the command will continue to explore every valid lead in the inquiry and ensure that anyone found guilty is held accountable.
He stated that the command remained steadfast in its mission to safeguard lives and property, restore public trust in the police, and ensure that violent criminals did not escape punishment.
