Two Nigerians, Chukwudi Okafor, 31, and Samuel Eze, 34, have been arrested in India following the alleged killing of their friend, Emeka Christian, in Pune’s Pisoli area over a dispute linked to a romantic relationship.
India Today reported that the 40-year-old victim was beaten to death after an argument broke out during a late-night gathering on Sunday at the residence of a Nigerian woman in Pisoli. Christian was said to have been at the apartment with other Nigerians for dinner when the disagreement erupted.
According to police, the dispute centred on the woman, who was reportedly in a romantic relationship with one of the suspects and frequently received him at her residence. Investigators said Christian allegedly objected to the relationship, a move that led to heightened tension among the group.
The situation reportedly escalated later in the night, culminating in a violent assault around 3 a.m. on Monday.
Senior Police Inspector Mansing Patil was quoted as saying that Christian was allegedly beaten and struck with a hard object during the altercation.
He was rushed to the hospital by the Vice President of the Nigerian Students Union in Pune, Gift Utah, but died while receiving treatment.
Following the incident, police registered a case under Sections 103 (murder) and 3(5) (common intent) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The suspects have been arrested, while a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the third accused.
Police also disclosed that Emeka was a resident of Pisoli and was engaged in the garment trading business. He was said to be in possession of a valid passport and visa, which allowed him to stay in India until 2027.
The arrested suspects, authorities added, are also reportedly involved in the clothing business, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
