Operatives of the Rivers State Police Command have arrested a suspect in connection with the alleged rape and murder of a young woman in Oyigbo Local Government Area of the state.
The tragic incident, which has thrown the community into mourning, reportedly occurred on Monday when residents discovered the lifeless body of the victim, identified only as an orphan, in her rented apartment.
According to preliminary reports, neighbours became alarmed after they noticed the young woman had not been seen since the previous evening. When attempts to reach her failed, some concerned neighbours forced open her door and were met with a horrifying sight — the woman lying motionless on the floor, partially unclothed, with signs suggesting she had been assaulted before her death.
Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, said detectives immediately swung into action after receiving a distress call from residents. “We can confirm that one suspect has been arrested in connection with the incident. The case is being handled by the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Port Harcourt. We are carrying out a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the crime and bring everyone involved to justice,” Iringe-Koko said.
Sources within the community revealed that the suspect, a young man living in the same compound as the deceased, was apprehended after neighbours raised suspicions over his strange behaviour on the day of the incident. “He was seen leaving the girl’s room late at night, but we thought they were friends. The next morning, she was dead,” one resident who pleaded anonymity told reporters.
The victim, described as quiet and hardworking, reportedly moved into the area only a few months ago. Community members expressed outrage and demanded swift justice, calling on the police to ensure the suspect faces the full weight of the law.
Her body has since been deposited at a morgue for autopsy as investigations continue.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has appealed to members of the public to remain calm and assist with credible information that could help unravel the full details of the case.
Iringe-Koko reiterated the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents, warning that perpetrators of gender-based violence would face severe consequences under the law.
