Kohima, Nagaland, November 5 (HBTV): The horrific murder of 22-year-old Vihozhonu Zao that took place on October 24 in Kohima has been cracked, with the Kohima police naming the deceased woman’s adoptive uncle as the perpetrator of the crime.
The crime happened over a cup of tea, police told media persons on Wednesday. The accused, identified as Samuel Zao, said to be a Nepali national adopted into the family by one of the aunts of the victim, has been arrested for the brutal killing of his niece.
Police said that the murder was not premeditated but rather triggered by a sudden spark of anger. However, the possible involvement of other family members is under investigation. Samples collected from the crime scene have been sent to the forensic lab for detailed examination.
According to police reports, the crime occurred inside the family residence when the niece was asked to prepare tea. When she didn’t respond to him, the accused, in a sudden fit of anger, struck her with a firewood log, leading to her being unconscious. The injury marks and broken fingers on her body indicate that she tried to defend herself during the assault.
After committing the crime, Samuel Zao allegedly removed the SIM card from her phone, smashed the device, and disposed of it in a KMC truck. He then used a sweater to mop the blood. Later, he allegedly threw the sweater and blood-stained waste into a nearby gutter before attempting to dispose of additional evidence in a ring well.
The next morning, on October 25 at around 7:40 AM, the police were informed of the incident. Authorities confirmed that there were no signs of sexual abuse.
Officials stated that the detection stands as a testament to the efficiency and prompt response of the investigating team, ensuring that the accused was arrested within 24 hours of the crime being reported.