The Abia State Police Command has commenced an investigation into the mysterious death of five members of a family discovered in their home at Umuimo, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area.
The deceased were identified as Mr. Kachi Nnabugwu, his wife, Chinaza, and their three children. Their lifeless bodies were found inside their residence on Tuesday after relatives and neighbours became worried over their prolonged absence.
Confirming the incident on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the matter was reported to the Osisioma Divisional Police Headquarters by the deceased’s brother after repeated efforts to reach the family proved unsuccessful.
She said, “Yes, the attention of the Osisioma Divisional Police Headquarters was drawn to the incident on July 22, 2026, by the brother of the deceased, who reported that after being unable to reach Kachi Nnabugwu, they proceeded to his residence at Umuimo Village, Osisioma LGA.
“Upon arrival, repeated knocks yielded no response. They subsequently forced entry into the house, where they discovered the lifeless and decomposing bodies of their brother and his family.”
According to Chinaka, detectives immediately visited the scene and launched an investigation into the incident.
“The crime scene has been visited. A preliminary visual inspection of the bodies was conducted, and photographs taken.
“The corpses have been deposited at the morgue for preservation and autopsy. Investigation is ongoing,” she added.
Residents of the community said the family was last seen on Saturday, July 18, before concerns mounted over their disappearance.
It was gathered that neighbours, assisted by other residents, eventually forced open the door to the house after several unsuccessful attempts to establish contact with the occupants, only to discover the bodies inside.
Community sources disclosed that containers containing leftover food and a generator were found in the house during the search. The remains were subsequently evacuated to a mortuary for preservation.
Meanwhile, a video circulating on social media showed residents performing traditional rites shortly after the discovery of the bodies. However, the circumstances surrounding the deaths remain unknown.
The police said investigations are continuing to determine the cause of the tragedy.
