By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Delta State Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has condoled with the family of retired High Court Judge, Justice Ifeoma Okogwu, who was found murdered in her Asaba residence, assuring them that the command will ensure justice is served.
Residents of the area have been left in shock following the gruesome killing, as the police intensify efforts to track down the principal suspect believed to have fled after the attack.
Police authorities said a manhunt has been launched for the fleeing suspect, identified as Godwin Vanem, after preliminary investigation linked him to the crime.
Another suspect, Lucky Matthew, has already been arrested in connection with the incident, and is currently being interrogated by detectives from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID).
The case was immediately transferred to the Homicide Section of the SCID on the directive of the Commissioner of Police to ensure what the command described as a “discreet and thorough” investigation.
Justice Okogwu’s body was discovered on November 24 when her brother visited her home and met her lifeless in the sitting room with her hands, legs, and mouth tied.
The disturbing scene reportedly prompted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of ‘A’ Division, Asaba, to swiftly mobilize operatives to the residence upon receiving the distress complaint.
Police sources said the remains of the retired judge were evacuated and deposited at the mortuary for an autopsy as part of efforts to uncover the full circumstances surrounding her death.
The killing has sparked fresh concerns about safety in residential areas of the capital city, with neighbours describing the late jurist as a quiet and respected figure.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police urged members of the public to assist the investigation by volunteering credible information that could lead to the arrest of the fleeing suspect.