The Rivers State Police Command has arrested a man identified simply as Mr. Abuchi over the alleged killing of his wife in Amaji village, Umuoyoro Community, Omuma Local Government Area of the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident during a telephone conversation on Friday.
She stated that the suspect had been taken into custody and that a full investigation was underway.
“Yes, I can confirm the incident. The suspect has been arrested and the Commissioner of Police has ordered a detailed investigation to ensure timely justice,” she said.
It was gathered that the suspect has been transferred to the Eberi Police Division in Omuma LGA for further investigation.
Residents of the community were thrown into shock on Thursday when news filtered in that the couple had an altercation while working on their farm in Amaji village.
Although details remain sketchy, a source disclosed that an argument broke out between them, during which the suspect allegedly attacked his wife with a kitchen knife.
The woman, a mother of two, was said to have died from the injuries sustained.
According to a community source, the woman’s scream attracted other villagers who were working nearby.
“People got to know about the incident when the woman screamed loudly. The scream attracted other villagers working around the farm. They rushed there, overpowered the man and restrained him,” the source said.
A security source, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the suspect reportedly told investigators that he did not understand what came over him at the time of the incident.
Meanwhile, the Centre for Basic Rights and Accountability Campaign has condemned the act and called for a thorough investigation.
The National Coordinator of the group, Prince Wiro, described the incident as inhumane and said there was no justification for such action.
The police assured residents that justice would be served as investigations continue.
