Man Arrested Over Alleged Murder of 56-Year-Old Friend in Anambra

The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man, identified as Ifeanyi Nwankwo, over the alleged murder of his 56-year-old friend, Kelechi Madu, in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of the state.

According to the police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the investigation began after the deceased’s wife reported on August 18 that her husband had left home on the evening of August 17 and failed to return.

Ikenga said police operatives, working with local vigilantes and members of the deceased’s family, immediately launched a search to locate him.

He said the wife later returned to the police station and reported that her husband had been found dead in a nearby bush in Umuobi, Awkuzu.

“Police operatives immediately mobilised to the scene, where the deceased was found lying lifeless with a deep axe cut to his head. The corpse was subsequently evacuated and deposited in the hospital for preservation,” Ikenga said.

During the investigation, police arrested Nwankwo, who allegedly confessed to being involved in the planning and killing of Madu.

Preliminary investigations reportedly revealed that Nwankwo had allegedly obtained money from the deceased under the guise of helping him acquire a piece of land.

Police alleged that the suspect subsequently engaged two other individuals to kill Madu in an attempt to conceal the alleged fraudulent transaction and prevent the recovery of the money.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnanna Oji Ama, has directed that the investigation be intensified to identify and arrest all other individuals allegedly involved in the conspiracy and murder.

The police said the suspect remains in custody as investigations continue.