By IKECHUKWU IWEAJUNWA

The Imo Police Command has arrested one Mr Francis Chukwura for alleged attempt to kill his neighbour’s son for ritual purpose.

The command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Mike Abattam, confirmed the arrest in a statement issued in Owerri and made available to newsmen on Thursday.

Abattam stated that the suspect lured the victim, Henry Ekwos, 14, into his room and attempted to kill him.

The suspect was said to have dug a shallow grave in his room, where he allegedly planned to bury the boy’s remains after killing him.

“The incident occurred in Ubommiri, Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo on Jan. 6, where one Francis Chukwura lured his neighbours son, Henry Ekwos, into his room to help him install WhatsApp in his phone.

“The unsuspecting boy innocently entered the room with him, where the suspect had already dug a grave-size pit.

“The boy, on seeing the pit in the room became suspicious and turned to run out but the suspect picked up a machete and gave him several cuts on his head and body,” Abattam stated.

He added that the victim “did not stop running and screaming for help.

“Luckily, passers-by, who heard his screaming, immediately alerted the police patrol team in the area,” the PPRO added.

He further stated that onarrival at the scene, “the police operatives disarmed the assailant and rescued the victim, with the assistance of some members of the community”.

Abattam stated that the victim was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital, while the suspect was taken to the police station.

“Upon interrogation, we learnt that the suspect was a former staff member of FMC, Owerri but was dismissed and presently has no visible means of livelihood.

“He could not give a reasonable reason why he attempted to kill the victim, but on the pit he dug in his room, he said his wife was aware.

“He also said it was done to hurt his landlord for giving him quit notice,” Abattam further stated. (NAN)