The Anambra State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the death of a middle-aged man, identified simply as Emeka, who reportedly fell from a four-storey building in the Odoakpu area of Onitsha South Local Government Area.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Friday at a building located on Afubera Street, throwing residents into confusion and fear.
A visit to the premises on Sunday showed a crowd of onlookers within the compound, while security personnel were stationed at the scene.
Footage shared on social media captured the lifeless body of the victim lying on the ground as residents gathered around in shock.
Sources alleged that the deceased had been accused of stealing boxer shorts belonging to his employer, who owns the property where the incident happened.
A resident, who gave her name as Chichi, claimed the victim, said to be a supervisor at a factory operating within the building, was assaulted and held in confinement for several days before his death.
She explained that sections of the building are used for the production of boxer shorts, where the deceased worked.
“He was accused of theft and beaten. He was then tied and locked up for days. In the early hours of Friday, we heard a noise and later discovered his body on the ground.
He still had restraints on him, which raised suspicion that he was thrown down,” she alleged.
According to her, police operatives later evacuated the corpse and arrested some individuals, including workers at the facility.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said detectives had begun a full investigation, with some suspects already in custody.
He added that varying accounts had been received concerning the circumstances surrounding the death.
“Different versions are aiding the investigation.
While some allege the victim was pushed to his death, others suggest he may have jumped in an attempt to escape.
“The police are examining all angles to ensure justice. An autopsy will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
Investigation is ongoing, and suspects remain in custody,” Ikenga said.
