A new suspect allegedly behind the murd£r of a nursing student in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra state, has been arrested.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the Anambra State Police Command spokesperson in Anambra, disclosed this in a statement issued in Awka and made available to reporters on Saturday, September 5.
23-year-old Vivian Chilaka, was k!lled on June 14 and her de@tg attracted widespread public outcry.
The landlord of the deceased was arrested following the incident.
Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, stated that the arrest of the new suspect, Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, 26, exonerated the landlord of the deceased, earlier interrogated by the police.
The statement said, “The suspect was arrested on 4 September, following credible and actionable information received by the command.”
Mr Ikenga also stated that preliminary investigation revealed that the suspect allegedly gained access to the building by scaling the fence with a ladder.
He explained that the suspect’s initial intention was to s£xually assault the deceased.
“A struggle ensued between him and the deceased, during which he allegedly used a knife to stab her, leading to her d£ath,” the statement added.
It stated that the suspect also revealed his involvement in 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,” Mr Ikenga added.
He stated that the suspect would remain in police custody as investigation continued, particularly into his alleged involvement in other related criminal activities.
The police spokesperson quoted the Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Nnanna Ama, to have commended the people of Alor “for their cooperation, patience and support throughout the period of the investigation.
“The commissioner of police particularly appreciates members of the community who provided timely and useful information that contributed to this significant breakthrough,” he stated.
Mr Ikenga also quoted the police chief as saying that the command would continue to pursue every credible lead in the investigation and ensure that anyone found culpable would be made to face justice.