The Delta State Police Command, Nigeria, has arrested Emmanuel Umukoro on suspicion of killing and burning his mother, Mrs. Fatima Umukoro, a school proprietress in the Warri area of Delta State.
The tragic incident occurred late Saturday night, shocking neighbors and the local community. Eyewitnesses described the scene as gruesome and horrific.
An eyewitness, identified only as Umoh, reported that neighbors became suspicious when they noticed the gate of the Umukoro residence left open around 10 pm, which was unusual for the household. Upon investigation, neighbors discovered a fire inside the house with the door left open.
“When neighbours checked on the residence of the Umukoro late that night, they were shocked to discover fire coming from inside the house with the door left open. Upon entering the house, they found the lifeless body of Mrs. Umukoro, burnt beyond recognition,” Umoh stated.
Neighbors also reported seeing Emmanuel Umukoro driving away from the compound at high speed in his mother’s car around 8:30 pm, raising further suspicions.
The suspect was subsequently apprehended by police along the Sapele-Warri Road as he allegedly attempted to flee to an unknown destination.
Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident on Sunday. “The son is in police custody now but cannot say whether he’s the one who killed her until an investigation is concluded,” Edafe stated.
The case has sent shockwaves through the local community, where Mrs. Umukoro was known as a respected school proprietress. The motive for the alleged matricide remains unclear as the investigation continues.
This incident highlights the issue of domestic violence and familial homicides in Nigeria, a problem that continues to concern law enforcement and social welfare organizations across the country.
As the investigation unfolds, local authorities are urging anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the case.
Credit: Punchng.com