The Imo State Police Command has taken three students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), into custody over the death of a 21-year-old undergraduate, Chinedu Christogonus.
Christogonus, a first-year Cyber Security student, allegedly lost his life after he was assaulted by members of the university’s Man O’ War organisation over an accusation that he stole N13,500.
The incident sparked tension on the campus, with reports indicating that angry students vandalised property and set some buildings ablaze in protest.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Henry Okoye, said investigators had made progress in the case and arrested three suspects linked to the incident.
The suspects were identified as Chukwuemeka Benedict, 21; Kelechi Ikenna, 24; and Obioma Anastasia, 21. Police said all three are 500-level students of the institution.
Okoye stated that preliminary investigations pointed to the alleged involvement of members of the Man O’ War group in the assault on the deceased after he was accused of theft.
According to the police spokesman, “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.
“Upon receiving the report, the Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, Audu Bosso, immediately directed operatives to take swift action, leading to the immediate arrest of the suspects. Relevant evidence has been secured, while the corpse has been deposited in the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
“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 further directed that all persons connected to the incident be identified and investigated, with a view to ensuring that justice is served.
“The Commissioner of Police assures the family of the deceased, the university community, and members of the public that the Command is fully on top of the situation and remains committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the death. He emphasises that no individual, regardless of status, will be shielded from the law if found culpable.”
The police command appealed to residents and members of the university community to remain peaceful while investigators conclude their work. It also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that anyone found responsible faces the law.
