Anambra Police detain new suspect over nursing student’s murder

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Police

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AWKA — The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a new suspect in connection with the murder of a 23-year-old nursing student, Vivian Chilaka, in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of the state.

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The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued in Awka and made available to newsmen on Saturday.

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Ikenga said the murder of Chilaka on June 14 had sparked widespread public outcry.

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He said the arrest of the new suspect, 26-year-old Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, had also exonerated the landlord of the deceased, who was earlier interrogated by the police in connection with the incident.

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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.

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“The suspect was arrested on September 4, following credible and actionable information received by the command.”

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According to the PPRO, preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly gained access to the building by scaling the fence with a ladder.

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He said the suspect’s initial intention was allegedly to sexually assault the deceased.

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“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.

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Ikenga said the suspect had also allegedly confessed to involvement in other similar crimes in the community.

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“These claims are currently being subjected to thorough investigation and corroboration by the command.

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“The command further wishes to clarify that the landlord, who was earlier linked with the incident, has been exonerated, following the ongoing investigation.

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“The command, therefore, urges members of the public to disregard any earlier suspicion against him,” the statement added.

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He said the suspect would remain in police custody as investigation continued, particularly into his alleged involvement in other related criminal activities.

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The PPRO quoted the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Nnanna Ama, as commending the people of Alor for their cooperation, patience and support throughout the investigation.

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“The CP particularly appreciates members of the community who provided timely and useful information that contributed to this significant breakthrough,” he said.

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Ikenga quoted the CP as saying that the command would continue to pursue every credible lead in the investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable faced justice.

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He said the command remained resolute in its commitment to protecting lives and property, strengthening public confidence in the police and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes did not escape justice.

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