A 51-year-old man, Emeka Nwangwu, has allegedly killed his 19-year-old cousin, Uloma Nwangwu, days after she accused him of sexual abuse and threatening her life, the police said on Tuesday.
The tragic incident occurred on Monday at a pharmacy in Nsukka, Nsukka Local Government Area, where the victim had gone to receive treatment.
Police spokesperson Daniel Ndukwe said the suspect, who is a member of a Neighbourhood Watch in the area, attacked Uloma, repeatedly striking her head on the floor, causing fatal injuries. She was rushed to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead, and her body was taken to the mortuary for autopsy.
According to Mr. Ndukwe, the victim had filed a complaint with the Umabor Divisional Police Headquarters on November 28, three days before her death.
She accused Mr. Nwangwu of repeatedly raping her since 2019, after the death of his wife, restricting her contact with family and friends, and threatening her life.
The police said the victim had attempted to flee to her family home in Enugu-Ezike, Igbo-Eze North LGA, but the suspect allegedly forced her back at gunpoint and locked her in a room.
She later escaped using a spare key and reported the matter to the police, who issued a medical report form for examination.
Mr. Ndukwe added that the suspect initially confessed at the police station, sought forgiveness, and promised to return her belongings.
The family, citing personal ties, initially chose not to pursue prosecution, instead opting for spiritual cleansing.
Tragically, the suspect later ambushed the victim at the pharmacy. Mr. Ndukwe confirmed that Mr. Nwangwu has been rearrested and is now in police custody.
Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Bitrus Giwa, condemned the killing as “cruel,” expressed condolences to the family, and assured that justice would be served.
He directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to carry out a thorough investigation before prosecuting the suspect.
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