Maha Christopher
The Imo State Police Command has arrested three students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) over the alleged murder of a 21 year old undergraduate, Chinedu Christogonus.
According to The Punch, Christogonus, a 100 level Cyber Security student, was allegedly beaten to death on Saturday by members of the university’s Man O’ War organisation after being accused of stealing N13,500.
The incident reportedly sparked unrest on campus as angry students went on a rampage, setting buildings ablaze and destroying property.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, said preliminary investigations revealed that the deceased was allegedly assaulted by members of the organisation after the theft allegation.
Okoye identified the suspects as Chukwuemeka Benedict, 21, Kelechi Ikenna, 24, and Obioma Anastasia, 21, all 500 level students of FUTO.
According to the police, initial findings showed that Christogonus was restrained and subjected to severe assault, leaving him critically injured.
“Initial findings indicate that the deceased was allegedly restrained and assaulted, resulting in critical injuries. He was subsequently rushed to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel,” Okoye said.
He added that following the report, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Bosso, ordered an immediate operation that led to the arrest of the suspects.
Relevant evidence has been recovered, while the victim’s body has been deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.
The police spokesman stated that the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri for a comprehensive investigation.
“To ensure a thorough, professional, and discreet investigation, the Commissioner of Police has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department, Owerri, for comprehensive investigation,” he said.
The command assured the deceased’s family, the university community, and the public that everyone connected to the incident would be investigated and prosecuted if found culpable.
The police also urged residents and students to remain calm and allow investigators to carry out their work while justice takes its course.
