The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a new suspect in connection with the murder of 23-year-old nursing student Vivian Chilaka in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of the state.
The command’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued in Awka and made available to journalists on Saturday.
Ikenga said Chilaka’s murder on June 14 had generated widespread public outrage.
He identified the new suspect as 26-year-old Kosisochukwu Ibekwe and said his arrest had exonerated the landlord of the deceased, who was previously questioned by the police over the incident.
“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.”
According to the PPRO, preliminary investigations indicated that Ibekwe allegedly gained entry into the building by climbing over the fence with a ladder.
He said the suspect allegedly entered the premises with the initial intention of sexually assaulting 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.
Ikenga also said the suspect had allegedly confessed to involvement in other similar crimes within the community.
“These claims are currently being subjected to thorough investigation and corroboration by the command.
The police further clarified that the landlord, who had earlier been linked to the incident, had been exonerated following the ongoing investigation.
“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,” the statement added.
Ikenga said the suspect would remain in police custody while investigations continued, particularly into his alleged involvement in other related criminal activities.
The PPRO said Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Nnanna Ama, commended residents of Alor for their cooperation, patience and support throughout the investigation.
“The CP particularly appreciates members of the community who provided timely and useful information that contributed to this significant breakthrough,” he said.
Ikenga quoted the CP as assuring that the command would continue to pursue all credible leads and ensure that anyone found culpable was brought to justice.
He said the command remained committed to protecting lives and property, strengthening public confidence in the police and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes were brought to justice.