Indian police have arrested two Nigerians, Chukwudi Okafor, 31, and Samuel Eze, 34, in connection with the alleged killing of their friend, Emeka Christian, in Pune’s Pisoli area following a dispute linked to a romantic relationship.
According to India Today, 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, where Christian and other Nigerians had gone for dinner.
Police said the disagreement centred on the woman, who was reportedly in a romantic relationship with one of the suspects and frequently hosted him at her apartment. Investigators said Christian allegedly objected to the relationship, triggering tension among the group.
The situation reportedly escalated in the early hours of Monday, with the assault occurring around 3 a.m. Senior Police Inspector Mansing Patil said Christian was beaten and struck with a hard object during the altercation.
Christian was rushed to a hospital by the Vice President of the Nigerian Students Union in Pune, Gift Utah, but was pronounced dead while receiving treatment.
Police have registered a case under Sections 103 (murder) and 3(5) (common intent) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). While Okafor and Eze are in custody, authorities said a manhunt is underway for a third suspect.
Investigators disclosed that Christian, a resident of Pisoli, was involved in the garment trading business and held a valid passport and visa permitting him to stay in India until 2027. The arrested suspects are also said to be engaged in the clothing business. Investigations are ongoing
