Anambra Police Arrest New Suspect in Nursing Student's Murder, Clear Landlord

A new suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of a nursing student in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State, police have said.

The Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the arrest in a statement issued in Awka and made available to reporters on Saturday, September 5.

The victim, 23-year-old Vivian Chilaka, was killed on June 14 in an incident that sparked widespread public outcry.

Her landlord was initially arrested and questioned in connection with the killing.

However, Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said the arrest of the new suspect, 26-year-old Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, had cleared the landlord of any involvement.

‘The suspect was arrested on 4 September, following credible and actionable information received by the command,’ the statement said.

According to Ikenga, preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect gained access to the building by scaling the fence with a ladder, with the initial intention of sexually assaulting the victim.

‘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.

The statement further noted that the suspect had disclosed his alleged involvement in similar crimes within the community, claims the police said were still being investigated and corroborated.

‘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,’ Ikenga said.

He said the suspect would remain in police custody as investigations continued, particularly regarding his alleged involvement in other related crimes.

The police spokesperson quoted the Commissioner of Police in Anambra, Nnanna Ama, as commending residents of Alor "for their cooperation, patience and support throughout the period of the investigation," adding that the commissioner especially appreciated community members who provided timely and useful information that led to the breakthrough.

Ikenga also quoted the police chief as saying the command would continue to pursue every credible lead in the case and ensure that anyone found culpable would be made to face justice.