By Milcah Tanimu
In Enugu, a man has been arrested in connection with the tragic murder of a four-year-old girl, Zinachukwu Ugwu. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Nweke Chukwuemeka, was apprehended following an emergency call received by the Enugu State Police on August 18, 2024, around 10:30 PM.
Police from the Nsukka unit of the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad responded to the call and discovered the child’s body at a residence on Orba Road in Nsukka Local Government Area. The girl was found dead after Chukwuemeka allegedly attacked her while she was asleep. The body was transported to the hospital, where she was confirmed dead and later placed in the mortuary.
The suspect was found in possession of the murder weapon, believed to be Indian hemp, and a suspicious charm. Preliminary investigations revealed that Chukwuemeka, a resident of the same compound as the victim’s family, had initially attempted to attack other neighbors before targeting the child. He reportedly used a knife to slit the girl’s throat.
Chukwuemeka admitted to the crime, claiming he was under the influence of Indian hemp, methamphetamine, and an alcoholic beverage known as Action Bitters. He also confessed to being a member of the Vikings Confraternity and recounted a previous violent incident in Jos, Plateau State, where he killed a rival gang member.
Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, condemned the crime as horrific and expressed condolences to the grieving family. He has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State CID to ensure a thorough investigation and has urged residents to be vigilant to prevent such tragedies. Chukwuemeka is expected to face charges and prosecution once the investigation is complete.
