Police have arrested a 26-year-old suspect over the alleged murder of nursing student Vivian Chilaka in Anambra State, while the deceased’s landlord has been exonerated.
The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old suspect, Kosisochukwu Edward Ibekwe, in connection with the alleged murder of 23-year-old nursing student Vivian Chilaka in Alor, Idemili South Local Government Area of the state.
The arrest was confirmed by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement issued in Awka on Saturday, September 5, 2026.
According to Ikenga, Ibekwe was arrested on September 4 following what the command described as credible and actionable information.
Chilaka was killed on June 14, 2026, in an incident that generated widespread public concern. The police said the latest development had also cleared the deceased’s landlord, who was previously interrogated in connection with the case.
Ikenga said preliminary investigation indicated that the suspect allegedly gained access to the building by climbing over the fence with the aid of a ladder.
According to the police, the suspect’s initial intention was allegedly to sexually assault the deceased.
The command said a struggle subsequently ensued between Ibekwe and Chilaka, during which he allegedly used a knife to stab her, resulting in her death.
The police said the account formed part of the suspect’s statement and that investigations were still ongoing.
The command also said Ibekwe had allegedly made revelations linking him to other similar incidents in the community. However, police stressed that those claims were being subjected to further investigation and corroboration.
The command further clarified that the landlord of the deceased, who had earlier been linked to the case, had been exonerated following the latest phase of the investigation.
The police urged members of the public to disregard earlier suspicions against the landlord.
The development represents a significant shift in the investigation, with the police now focusing on Ibekwe and examining his alleged connection to the killing and other reported criminal activities.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Ama, commended residents of Alor for their cooperation, patience and support during the investigation.
Ama particularly appreciated community members who provided information that assisted the police in making what the command described as a significant breakthrough.
The commissioner, according to Ikenga, assured the public that the command would continue to pursue credible leads and ensure that anyone found culpable faced justice.
The police said Ibekwe would remain in custody while investigations continued, particularly into his alleged involvement in other criminal activities.
The command also reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, strengthening public confidence in the police and ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to justice.
The suspect remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Visit GMTNewsng for more news stories.
