Anambra police detain new suspect over nursing student’s murder

Anambra police have arrested a new suspect in the murder of 23-year-old nursing student Vivian Chilaka, a case that triggered widespread public anger in the southeastern Nigerian state.

Police spokesman Tochukwu Ikenga said Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, 26, was arrested on September 4 after officers received what they described as credible and actionable information. The arrest, he said, also cleared Chilaka’s landlord, who had earlier been questioned in connection with the killing.

According to the police statement, preliminary inquiries indicate that Ibekwe allegedly entered the building by scaling a fence with a ladder. Investigators believe his initial intention was to sexually assault Chilaka. A struggle allegedly followed, during which he used a knife to stab her, causing her death.

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The Anambra Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old male suspect, Kosisochukwu Ibekwe, in connection with the murder of Miss Vivian Chilaka.

Police also said the suspect had allegedly confessed to involvement in other similar crimes in the community. Ikenga stressed that those claims remained subject to further investigation and corroboration. Ibekwe will remain in police custody while officers investigate the murder and the alleged related offences.

Police Commissioner Nnanna Ama praised residents of Alor for their cooperation and for providing information that contributed to the arrest. The command said it would continue pursuing credible leads and seek justice for anyone found responsible, while urging the public to disregard earlier suspicions against the landlord.

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The command further wishes to clarify that the landlord, who was earlier linked with the incident, has been exonerated, following the ongoing investigation.