By Izunna Okafor, Awka
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old man, Kosisochukwu Edward Ibekwe, in connection with the June 14, 2026 murder of a 23-year-old nursing student, Miss Vivian Chilaka, in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of the state for reportedly refusing to be r@ped.
The development comes nearly three months after Chilaka’s death triggered off a chain of reactions and counter-reactions regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Confirming the arrest in a statement issued to newsmen on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the suspect was apprehended on September 4 following credible and actionable information received by the police.
According to the police spokesman, preliminary investigation showed that the suspect allegedly gained entry into the building where the victim was staying by climbing over the fence with the aid of a ladder.
He said the suspect’s initial intention was allegedly to sexually assault the nursing student.
However, it was gathered that a struggle subsequently broke out between the suspect and Chilaka, during which he allegedly used a knife to stab her, resulting in her death.
The police spokesman added that the suspect had made further claims allegedly linking him to other similar incidents within the community.
He, however, said those claims were still being subjected to thorough investigation and corroboration by the Command.
The Anambra State Police Command also cleared the landlord of the victim’s house who had earlier come under suspicion in connection with the killing, noting that investigations have exonerated him.
The police consequently urged members of the public to disregard the earlier suspicion against the landlord.
Ibekwe, according to the statement, remains in police custody as investigators continue probing the circumstances surrounding Chilaka’s death, as well as the suspects alleged links to other criminal incidents.
Commending residents of Alor for their cooperation and support throughout the investigation, the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, particularly appreciated members of the community who provided information that helped the police make the breakthrough.
CP Ama said the Command would continue to pursue credible leads and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law.
The Commissioner also reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, strengthening public confidence in policing and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes do not evade justice.
