Police Arrest Father, Son for Alleged Murder of Kinsman in Imo

The Imo State Police Command has arrested Obinna Obiekea, also known as Losky, and his son, Chidubem Obiekea, for the alleged murder of their 35-year-old kinsman, Chima Okafor. The incident took place on New Year’s Eve, December 31, 2024, in Nnebugwu autonomous community, Oguta local government area.

According to a petition submitted by the father of the deceased, Uche Okafor, to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, the suspects dragged Okafor’s son out of a church during the crossover service and accused him of stealing a pair of jeans worth N25,000. The suspects, including Obinna and his family members, allegedly beat the victim, disfigured him, and then set him on fire in their compound. Despite being rushed to the Congregation of the Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ Hospital at Mgbele, Okafor succumbed to the severe burns he sustained and died on January 1, 2025.

In the petition, Okafor appealed to the police commissioner, Governor Hope Uzodimma, and President Bola Tinubu to ensure justice for his son’s death. The suspects are currently in police custody at the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department in Owerri.

A police source revealed that an autopsy will be conducted to establish the cause of death, with a witness present from the suspects. The case will proceed to court once the necessary procedures are completed. Police spokesperson Henry Okoye confirmed the arrest and stated that a thorough investigation had been ordered by the Commissioner of Police.