The Delta State Police Command has paraded a 28-year-old suspect for the alleged murder of his friend and former roommate following a dispute linked to internet fraud proceeds.
Spokesperson of the Command, SP Bright Edafe, disclosed the incident while parading the suspect at the Command’s headquarters in Asaba, describing the case as a tragic consequence of uncontrolled anger, criminal lifestyle choices, and avoidable conflict.
According to the police, the suspect, Oghenegare, and the deceased, Courage, 25, residing in Agbarho, Ughelli North Local Government Area, had maintained a close friendship for years and were jointly involved in internet-related fraud operations.
Trouble reportedly started after a disagreement over proceeds from an online transaction valued at nearly $1,000.
SP Edafe explained that the disagreement escalated when the suspect confronted the victim over access to online accounts and transaction credentials.
The confrontation degenerated into a physical altercation, during which the suspect allegedly struck Courage on the head with a sharp object believed to be a small shovel or similar tool.
The victim sustained fatal injuries and was later confirmed dead.
Police say the murder weapon is still being recovered, as the suspect allegedly disposed of it while attempting to evade arrest.
During interrogation, the suspect admitted knowing the deceased for many years and confirmed they had previously lived and worked together.
He denied being under the influence of drugs at the time of the incident, despite police concerns over the role of substance abuse and secret cult affiliations in similar crimes.
SP Edafe revealed that the deceased’s father was present at the Command during the suspect’s parade and observed unusual behaviour from the suspect, whom he said attempted to flee upon sighting the bereaved parent, an action the police described as indicative of guilt.
The police spokesperson lamented the loss of a 25-year-old vibrant youth, stressing that the incident marked yet another avoidable death driven by greed, criminal activity, and lack of emotional control.
“This is a painful reminder of how quickly anger and criminal lifestyles can destroy lives and families,” SP Edafe said, urging parents to take responsibility for moral guidance and warning young people against internet fraud, cultism, and violence.
The suspect remains in police custody and will be charged in court upon completion of investigations.
