Police arrest three over killing of Imo varsity student

LlThe Imo State Police Command has arrested three students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri over the alleged killing of a 21-year-old undergraduate, Chinedu Christogonus.

The victim, a 100-level Cyber Security student, was reportedly beaten to death on Saturday by members of the university’s Man O’ War group after being accused of stealing ₦13,500.

The incident sparked unrest on campus, with students protesting violently, setting some buildings ablaze and destroying property.

In a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, said preliminary findings showed that the deceased was restrained and severely assaulted by the suspects, leading to critical injuries.

He identified those arrested as Chukwuemeka Benedict (21), Kelechi Ikenna (24), and Obioma Anastasia (21), all 500-level students of the institution.

According to the police, Christogonus was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre in Owerri, where he was later confirmed dead.

Okoye said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Audu Bosso, had ordered immediate action upon receiving the report, leading to the arrest of the suspects and recovery of relevant evidence. The victim’s body has been deposited in the morgue for autopsy.

The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri for further investigation, with authorities directed to identify and question all individuals connected to the incident.

The police assured the victim’s family, the university community, and the public that no one found culpable would be shielded from justice.

Residents were urged to remain calm and allow the investigation to proceed, as the command reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law.