The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 26-year-old man, identified as Ifeanyi Chukwu Joseph, over the alleged attempted murder of his girlfriend’s 17-year-old niece, Chiamaka Chukwuokore, in Owerri, Imo State.

The suspect was reportedly arrested following an incident on November 1, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., during which he allegedly pushed the teenager from a two-storey building along Mbonu Ejike Street, Ikeneagbu, Owerri, after an alleged altercation between them.

The victim reportedly sustained serious injuries and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, where she is currently receiving medical attention in critical condition.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Imo State Police Command, DSP Henry Okoye, the incident sparked outrage among residents, who reportedly mobilised and attempted to lynch the suspect. However, police operatives swiftly intervened, rescued him from the angry mob and took him into custody.

DSP Okoye disclosed that the suspect is currently undergoing investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and facilitate appropriate legal action.

He further urged members of the public, particularly social media users, to refrain from circulating unverified information about the incident, advising residents to rely on official sources for accurate updates.

The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, psc(+), mnips, assured the public that the matter would be thoroughly investigated and that all necessary steps would be taken to establish the facts and ensure justice in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner also appealed to residents to remain calm, avoid taking the law into their own hands and allow the police to carry out their duties professionally.

The Police Command assured the public that further developments concerning the case would be communicated as the investigation progresses.

Source: DSP Henry Okoye, Police Public Relations Officer, Imo State Police Command.

Date: November 2, 2026.