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The Digest:

A middle-aged man, Nwalozie Chiwendu, has allegedly killed his brother, Chidiebere Isaiah, with a cutlass in Umunwacha village, Ofeh community, Omuma Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident occurred around 4pm on Thursday after Chiwendu accused Isaiah of practising witchcraft and using it to hinder his business success. The deceased's body bore multiple machete wounds. The suspect is currently at large, with the community launching a search. Youth President Chinonso Favour Chima confirmed the incident, stating the community is cooperating with police. Rivers Police spokesperson CSP Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed a manhunt has been launched, noting the suspect acted "after accusing him of witchcraft that made him not to prosper."

Key Points:
  • The killing underscores the persistent and deadly consequences of witchcraft accusations in communities.
  • It tears apart families and communities, leaving lasting trauma and cycles of vengeance.
  • The victim's family suffers irreparable loss, while the suspect faces potential life imprisonment.
  • This signals the urgent need for education and awareness to combat superstitious beliefs.
  • The timing, with the suspect at large, leaves the community on edge and justice delayed.
Police are pursuing the suspect, but the tragedy highlights the deadly consequences of unaddressed superstitious beliefs and the need for community sensitisation.

Sources: Daily Trust, Rivers State Police Command