The Enugu State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old man over the alleged killing of his girlfriend following an argument about HIV infection.
Police identified the suspect as Okpara Chibuike Emmanuel and the deceased simply as Chinyere. The incident occurred at Olympic Layout, One-Day Road, Enugu.
According to police spokesperson SP Daniel Ndukwe, officers arrested Emmanuel on September 21 after rescuing him from an angry mob. Preliminary investigations indicate that Chinyere died on September 19. Police said Emmanuel told investigators that the couple had argued over allegations about who infected the other with HIV. 
During the argument, Emmanuel allegedly struck Chinyere on the head with a pestle. Investigators said he later concealed her remains inside the toilet of his apartment.
The situation came to light after neighbours noticed an offensive smell coming from the apartment. They reportedly forced their way inside and discovered Chinyere’s remains.
Residents then apprehended Emmanuel, and a crowd gathered at the scene. Police officers arrived shortly afterwards and rescued him from the mob before taking him into custody. Videos from the scene later circulated online.
In one of the clips, Emmanuel reportedly spoke about the HIV dispute while residents questioned him. Witnesses also confirmed that the incident happened around the One-Day area of Enugu.
Police have since moved Chinyere’s remains to a mortuary for an autopsy. Investigators are also working to contact her relatives as the investigation continues.
Enugu State Commissioner of Police Bitrus Giwa has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department to conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding Chinyere’s death.
The command also cautioned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands when dealing with suspects.
Police said investigators would gather the necessary evidence and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The command added that Emmanuel would face prosecution once officers complete the investigation.
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