By Ovat Abeng
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a 21-year-old apprentice, Chiemerie Anieke, for the alleged murder of his master following a violent confrontation in the commercial city of Onitsha.
The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed the development in a statement released in Awka on Monday. According to the report, the suspect allegedly attacked his employer, identified as the late Ikechukwu Nwite, with a wooden pestle.
The suspect also reportedly turned the weapon on the victim’s wife, Mrs. Ogechukwu Nwite, leaving her with severe injuries before he was apprehended.
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The tragedy occurred in the early hours of February 15, 2026. Police investigations suggest that the attack was triggered by an admonishment. The late Mr. Nwite had reportedly confronted Anieke over a pattern of “bad behaviour,” which included pilfering money from the shop, staying out late at night, and the consumption of illicit drugs.
“Preliminary information reveals that the suspect was allegedly provoked by the manner in which the late Ikechukwu admonished him,” SP Ikenga stated.
Following the assault, Mrs. Ogechukwu Nwite was rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital. Authorities confirmed she is currently responding to treatment.
The police have recovered the pestle used in the attack as an exhibit. Chiemerie Anieke remains in police custody, and the case has been officially transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Awka for a more comprehensive investigation.
SP Ikenga assured the public that the Command is committed to a thorough process to ensure that justice is served in the matter.
