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.
Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued in Awka, saying the suspect, identified as Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, 26, was arrested on September 4 following what the command described as credible information.
The police said the development exonerated the landlord of the deceased, who had earlier been interrogated by operatives during the investigation.
According to the statement, preliminary investigations revealed that Ibekwe allegedly gained access to the building by climbing the fence with a ladder.
The suspect was alleged to have initially intended to sexually assault the student, but a struggle reportedly broke out between them, during which he allegedly stabbed her with a knife, leading to her death.
“The suspect also revealed his involvement in similar crimes in the community,” the police said, adding that the claims were still being investigated and would be subjected to further verification.
The murder of Chilaka, who was killed on June 14, had generated widespread public concern and outrage.
The police command urged members of the public to disregard earlier suspicions against the landlord, stressing that the ongoing investigation had cleared him of involvement in the case.
The suspect remains in police custody as authorities continue investigations, including inquiries into his alleged involvement in other related criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, commended residents of Alor for their cooperation and support during the investigation, saying information provided by members of the community contributed to the breakthrough.
Ama assured that the command would continue to pursue all credible leads and ensure that anyone found responsible for violent crimes would face justice.
