NNEWI, Nigeria – A 33-year-old man has been arrested in Anambra State for the alleged rape of a young woman and subsequent murder of her 15-year-old brother, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the rural community of Unubi.
The suspect, identified as Chidiebere Mbene, was apprehended on Friday, April 25, 2025, following what police described as swift cooperation between local residents and law enforcement.
According to authorities, the crimes occurred on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, when Mbene allegedly raped the victim’s elder sister before killing the teenage boy.
Anambra State Police spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the arrest, stating the suspect had initially fled the scene but was tracked down through community tip-offs.
“The case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department in Awka for comprehensive investigation,” Ikenga said.
Commissioner of Police Ikioye Orutugu praised the collaborative effort that led to Mbene’s capture.
“This arrest demonstrates the effectiveness of community policing and public cooperation in combating crime,” Orutugu said.
“We remain committed to rooting out criminal elements and ensuring justice prevails in Anambra State.”
Local sources described growing tension in Unubi following the brutal incident, with many residents expressing relief at the suspect’s apprehension.
The victim, Nwokedi Michael Somtochukwu, was reportedly a secondary school student whose death has left the small farming community in mourning.
Police officials declined to provide further details about the investigation, citing the need to protect the surviving victim’s identity and the integrity of ongoing forensic examinations.
The arrest comes amid heightened concerns about gender-based violence in Nigeria, where activists have been calling for stronger protections for women and children.
Anambra State recently launched a special police unit dedicated to sexual violence cases, though critics argue more needs to be done to address systemic failures in the justice system.
Mbene is expected to be arraigned in court next week as police continue their investigation.
Orutugu urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities, reaffirming the police command’s commitment to public safety.
