By In a shocking case of violence, the Rivers State Police Command, south Nigeria has apprehended a suspect identified as Emeka, who allegedly orchestrated the gang rape and murder of Mrs. Chigbewejim Steward, the pregnant wife of a pastor, in the Abarikpo community of Ahoada East Local Government Area, Rivers State.
According to reports, Emeka had a quarrel with Mrs. Steward earlier on February 12, 2023, during which she called him a “wicked man.” In retaliation, Emeka allegedly threatened her, saying, “You will see wickedness today.” Later that night, around 1 am, Emeka and his gang broke into the Steward family’s home, kidnapped the five-month pregnant woman, and took her to an unknown location.
Lawyer Steward, the deceased’s husband and an Assistant Pastor with the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Abarikpo, confirmed the suspect’s arrest on Thursday. He recounted the harrowing events, stating that Emeka and his gang, whom he alleges are members of the ‘In Iceland’ cult group, raped and strangled his wife to death at their hideout.
The victim’s body was discovered several hours after her abduction near a fishing pond, with multiple bruises and bleeding from her vagina. It is reported that Mrs. Steward was known for her vocal opposition to criminal and cult activities in the Abarikpo community.
Grace Iringe-Koko, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, said she would seek information from the Divisional Police Officer and provide an update. However, a senior police officer who requested anonymity confirmed that two other suspects had been arrested in connection with the crime, in addition to Emeka. The officer stated, “It was not only Emeka. Two others were also arrested by the Ahoada Police Division. They are all in custody.”
The brutal gang rape and murder of a pregnant woman have sent shockwaves through the community and highlighted the urgent need to address the issues of violence, cult activities, and crime in the area. The victim’s husband has called for government intervention to ensure that justice prevails in this deeply distressing case.
As the investigation continues, the Rivers State Police Command is expected to provide further updates on the progress of the case and the fate of the arrested suspects. The community remains in mourning, seeking solace, and demanding swift action against those responsible for this heinous act.
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