The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old man, Okpara Emmanuel, in connection with the alleged killing of his girlfriend, identified only as Chinyere.
The suspect was arrested at his residence in Olympic Layout, One-Day area of Enugu, following information received by the police about the incident.
The state police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday at the command headquarters in GRA, Enugu.
According to the police, preliminary investigation indicated that the woman was allegedly killed on September 19, 2026, following an argument between her and Emmanuel over allegations concerning the source of an HIV infection.
Ndukwe said the suspect allegedly confessed during preliminary interrogation that he struck the woman on the head with a pestle during the argument, resulting in her death.
The police spokesperson said, “The suspect allegedly killed the victim on September 19, wrapped her remains in nylon and locked them inside the toilet of his apartment.”
He added that the decomposing body was later discovered after the odour attracted neighbours, who reportedly forced their way into the apartment and apprehended the suspect before the arrival of the police.
The remains were subsequently evacuated to a mortuary for preservation and autopsy, while the police said efforts were underway to identify and contact the deceased’s relatives.
Ndukwe further stated that Emmanuel was rescued from an angry mob and subsequently taken into police custody by operatives of the Awkunanaw Division.
The Commissioner of Police in Enugu State, Mamman Giwa, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The command said the suspect would be arraigned in court after the conclusion of investigations.
Giwa also urged members of the public, particularly young women, to exercise caution when visiting or spending time with people they may not know well.
The police advised members of the public to keep trusted relatives or friends informed about their movements as part of measures to improve personal safety.
