Abia Police Arrest Man in Viral Assault Video, Probe Attempted Murder Allegation

The Abia State Police Command has arrested a 37-year-old man, Agwu Ukpo, over his alleged involvement in the assault of a woman captured in a viral video that sparked widespread outrage on social media.

The suspect was apprehended by operatives of the Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU) following intelligence-led investigations into the incident, which reportedly stemmed from a domestic dispute.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, Maureen Chioma Chinaka, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, the command said Ukpo, a native of Akanu Community in Ohafia Local Government Area and resident of Okpuafor in Obingwa LGA, was arrested in connection with the alleged assault on Amarachi Chinyere.

According to preliminary investigations, the incident occurred on April 4, 2026.

A witness and landlord, Obinna Amaogu, told investigators that the victim was washing dishes after a meal when she disposed of a pot containing leftover soup that had reportedly been stored for three days.

Police said the suspect allegedly became angry over the disposal of the soup and confronted the woman. As she attempted to explain her actions, he allegedly attacked her.

Amaogu reportedly told investigators that both the suspect and the victim had been staying in his apartment because they were from the same community.

Following the incident, the victim was said to have relocated to Lagos and had not been seen within the area since then.

However, the police disclosed that they have now established contact with Amarachi Chinyere through a mobile phone number recently obtained from members of her community.

The command said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.

According to the police, the suspect is expected to face charges bordering on assault and attempted murder upon the conclusion of investigations.

The Abia State Police Command condemned the incident, describing the alleged attack as “barbaric, inhumane and unacceptable under any circumstances.”

The command reiterated its commitment to protecting vulnerable persons and ensuring that individuals responsible for acts of violence are brought to justice.