FUTO Student Dies After Alleged Assault Over ₦13,500 Theft Claim, Three Arrested

The Imo State Police Command has arrested three students of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) over the alleged murder of a 21-year-old undergraduate who reportedly died after being assaulted following accusations of theft.

The deceased, identified as Chinedu Chibuzor Christogonus, was a 100-level Cyber Security student and a member of the Man O’ War organization in the institution.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer of the Imo State Command, DSP Henry Okoye, preliminary investigations revealed that the student was allegedly subjected to severe assault by some members of the organisation over claims that he stole ₦13,500.

Police said the incident occurred on May 30, 2026, under circumstances now being investigated by detectives.

The three suspects currently in police custody were identified as Chukwuemeka Benedict (21), Kelechi Gospel Ikenna (24) and Obioma Anastasia (21), all 500-level students of FUTO.

 According to the police, initial findings suggest that the deceased was restrained and physically assaulted, resulting in critical injuries.

 He was subsequently rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owerri, where medical personnel confirmed him dead.

 Following a report of the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, directed operatives of the command to launch an immediate investigation, leading to the arrest of the three suspects.

Police authorities disclosed that relevant evidence connected to the case has been recovered, while the body of the deceased has been deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.

 To ensure a comprehensive investigation, the Commissioner of Police ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Owerri.

Bosso also directed investigators to identify and question every individual connected to the incident in order to establish the full circumstances surrounding the student’s death. 

The police commissioner assured the bereaved family, members of the university community and the public that the command would conduct a professional, transparent and thorough investigation. 

He stressed that anyone found culpable would face the full weight of the law, regardless of status or position.

“The Command remains committed to uncovering the circumstances surrounding the death and ensuring that justice is served. No individual will be shielded from the law if found responsible,” the statement said.

The police urged members of the public to remain calm and allow investigators to conclude their work, assuring that all those connected to the incident would be held accountable if found guilty.

The tragic death has generated concern within the university community, with many students calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances that led to the alleged assault and death of the young undergraduate.

 Police say investigations are ongoing.