A 32-year-old man, Ifeanyi Nwankwo, has been arrested by the Anambra State Police Command over the alleged murder of his 56-year-old friend, Kelechi Madu, in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area.
Madu was reported missing by his wife on August 18 after he left home the previous evening and did not return.
Police said a search involving officers, local vigilantes and members of Madu’s family began after the report. Later that day, his body was discovered in a bush at Umuobi, Awkuzu.
The deceased was found with a deep cut to the head, believed to have been inflicted with an axe.
The discovery triggered an investigation that led to Nwankwo’s arrest.
Police alleged that Nwankwo confessed to planning the killing and hiring two people to carry it out.
Investigators also alleged that the suspect had collected money from Madu under the pretext of helping him purchase a piece of land.
According to the police, Nwankwo arranged the killing to conceal the transaction and stop Madu from demanding a refund.
The body has been deposited at a hospital, while efforts continue to identify and arrest the other suspects allegedly involved.
The Commissioner of Police in Anambra State, Nnanna Oji Ama, ordered investigators to widen the probe.
“Investigation must be intensified to identify and arrest all persons involved in the conspiracy and murder. Every person connected to this crime must be brought to justice,” the CP said.
Police said the investigation is ongoing.
(The Whistler)
