A man identified as Chima Okafor, 35, was set ablaze on New Year’s Day in Nnebukwu autonomous community, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, after being accused of stealing a pair of jeans worth N25,000.
The Imo State Police Command has detained two suspects, Obinna Obiekea, popularly known as Losky, and his son, Chidubem Obiekea, in connection with the gruesome incident.
Two other suspects, Nwamaka Obiekea (Obinna’s wife) and another son, Eloka, are reportedly on the run.
The horrific event occured in the early hours of January 1, when Chima was attending a crossover service at a Cherubim church when the accused allegedly dragged him out, assaulted him, and set him on fire in their compound.
Speaking to reporters, the victim’s father, Uche Okafor, recounted the incident.
“My son was at a church service when Obinna and his family accused him of stealing a pair of jeans.
“They dragged him out, beat him mercilessly with weapons, and set him on fire,” he said.
Chima was rushed to the Congregation of the Poor Handmaid of Jesus Christ Hospital in Mgbele, Oguta, but tragically succumbed to his injuries later that day.
Describing his pain, Uche Okafor called on Governor Hope Uzodimma, President Bola Tinubu, and law enforcement to ensure justice for his son.
“Obinna and Chidubem are in custody, but Nwamaka and Eloka are still at large. I beg the authorities to apprehend them and hold them accountable,” he stated in a petition submitted to the Imo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Aboki Danjuma.
A police source confirmed the case has been transferred to the homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Owerri.
“The suspects were arrested in Oguta and handed over to the CID. An autopsy will be conducted, and witnesses will be involved as we prepare the case for court,” the source revealed.
The Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the arrests and reassured the public of a comprehensive investigation.
“The Commissioner of Police has ordered a thorough investigation. All suspects involved will be brought to justice, and no stone will be left unturned,” he said.