Police in Enugu State have arrested a 30-year-old man for the alleged murder of his girlfriend, after neighbours discovered her decomposing remains hidden inside his apartment toilet.
The suspect, identified as Okpara Chibuike Emmanuel of Olympic Layout, One-Day area of Enugu, was taken into custody on September 21 after residents raised the alarm over a foul odour coming from his home.
According to a statement from the Enugu State Police Command, an angry mob had confronted the suspect before officers from the Awkunanaw Division arrived to rescue him and take him into formal custody.
Police say the victim, known only as Chinyere for now, was allegedly killed two days earlier, on September 19. Her surname, age and address have not yet been established, and efforts are underway to trace and inform her family.
Investigators say the smell from the decomposing body eventually drew the attention of neighbours, who broke down the toilet door and restrained the suspect before officers arrived. The remains have since been moved to a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
During questioning, the suspect reportedly admitted to the killing, telling police the fatal altercation began after the couple accused each other of transmitting HIV to one another.
He allegedly told investigators he struck the victim on the head with a pestle during the argument, killing her, before wrapping her body and hiding it in the toilet.
Commissioner of Police Mamman Bitrus Giwa has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to carry out a discreet and thorough investigation into the case, with a view to arraigning the suspect in court once the probe concludes.
The Commissioner also used the incident to urge caution among the public, particularly young women, advising them to keep trusted relatives or friends informed of their movements and to be careful about who they spend time with.
