CHUKA UBAH
Operatives of the Abia State Police Command have arrested a 35-year-old woman, Mrs. Nwoko Gift, for allegedly assaulting her 12-year-old niece with a kitchen knife in an incident captured on video.
Her arrest followed a distress report and actionable intelligence that led Police to the suspect’s residence at IBB Housing Estate, Umuahia.
Confirming the arrest to journalists, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Maureen Chianaka, said preliminary investigation revealed that on July 5, Mrs. Nwoko attempted to kill her niece, Miss Ebo Chimamanda, who lives with her.
According to the Police, the disagreement started over a domestic chore. “The victim was allegedly attacked for refusing to spread the clothes she was asked to spread before the suspect left for the market,” DSP Chianaka stated.
Investigation also revealed a pattern of abuse. “It was further discovered that the suspect has repeatedly beaten and also threatened to kill young Miss Chimamanda,” the spokesperson added.
Following the report, operatives from the World Bank Divisional Police Headquarters, Umuahia, raced to the scene. The victim was rescued, the suspect was apprehended, and the kitchen knife allegedly used in the attack was recovered as an exhibit.
The video of the assault, which circulated online, helped investigators identify the parties involved and corroborate witness accounts.
DSP Chianaka said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, for further investigation.
“Investigation is ongoing. Upon conclusion, the suspect will be charged to court for attempted murder,” she said.
The victim is currently receiving medical attention and care. Police said child protection agencies have also been notified to provide support.
The Abia State Police Command condemned all forms of child abuse and domestic violence. It urged members of the public to report such cases promptly to the nearest police station or through emergency lines, stressing that perpetrators will be prosecuted in line with the law.