Operatives of Enugu State Police command from Okpuje Division have arrested 33-year-old Sunday Echege, a resident of Ibagwa-Agu Farm Settlement in Ibagwa-Ani community, Nsukka LGA, for severing the left wrist of his wife, Chinonso Echege.
A statement issued by the spokesperson of Enugu State Police Command, SP Daniel Ndukwe said; “The arrest was made possible with the assistance of law-abiding members of the community, and the machete used in committing the crime was recovered from the suspect.”
Ndukwe added that “Preliminary investigations reveal that the suspect, who has confessed to the crime, claimed he acted out of suspicion that his wife was involved in extramarital affairs,” adding that “the suspect will be arraigned in court upon the conclusion of investigations.”
He further stated that the Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu, psc (+), has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to ensure a thorough and timely investigation, followed by the prosecution of the suspect. He further urged couples to resolve their differences through love, understanding, and legal means, rather than resorting to violent criminal acts.
Meanwhile, Enugu State government has transferred the victim to a prestigious hospital in the state capital for urgent medical care.
This update was communicated by the Commissioner for Children, Gender Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Ngozi Enih, on Tuesday morning.
“This is yet another tragic incident that we are pursuing to ensure justice is served.
“We have learned that, during the altercation, the man aimed for his wife’s head but instead severed her left hand as she attempted to protect herself from the machete. She also sustained injuries to her right hand.
“Upon receiving the report, we acted swiftly, leading to his immediate arrest. He is now in police custody.
“However, our primary concern right now is to save the victim’s life. Therefore, she has been relocated to Enugu State University Teaching Hospital, Parklane, where she is currently receiving comprehensive medical attention.
“Moreover, the government is taking this case very seriously. The governor’s wife, Her Excellency, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, is personally overseeing this horrific situation and is committed to ensuring that justice is served.
“The suspect will be transferred to the Police Force CID, Enugu today for an extensive investigation. Following that, the law will take its full course,” Mrs. Enih affirmed.
It is noteworthy that since taking office, the Peter Mbah administration has actively campaigned against gender-based violence and child abuse, resulting in numerous arrests, investigations, and ongoing trials for various related offences.
