Police in Enugu State have detained 24-year-old Desmond Ugwu over alleged attempted murder and rape of a pregnant woman in Affa community, in the Udi Local Government Area of the state.

This is contained in a statement on Sunday in Enugu by the Command’s spokesman, SP Daniel Ndukwe.

Mr Ndukwe said the 30-year-old victim, whose name is withheld, had on March 14 taken a short walk home from a neighbour’s house.

He said the familiar route was a quiet track road in Amokwo-Affa, Udi LGA.

He added, “But what should have been a routine return turned into a terrifying ordeal. Unaware that she was being followed, she was suddenly attacked from behind by the suspect, who was armed with a cutlass.

“He forced her to the ground, gripped her neck in a bid to strangle her, and covered her mouth to silence her cries.

“She was then dragged into an uncompleted building, where he threatened to kill her if she resisted before forcefully raping her.”

Mr Ndukwe said the victim reported the incident about 6:15 a.m. on March 15, prompting swift police action.

He added that operatives of the Affa Police Division promptly mobilised and detained the suspect.

The spokesman said the victim was immediately taken to hospital for medical examination and treatment.

“The scene was processed, leading to recovery of exhibits, including the cutlass and clothing bearing suspected blood and seminal stains.

“The suspect has confessed, while the Commissioner of Police, Mr Mamman Giwa, has ordered a thorough investigation,” Mr Ndukwe said.

He added that the suspect would be promptly arraigned in court upon conclusion of investigations.

The commissioner described the incident as deeply disturbing and unacceptable, reaffirming the command’s resolve to ensure justice.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements, noting that community awareness could make the difference between safety and tragedy. 

(NAN)