Kohima: Nagaland Police have solved the murder of 22-year-old state-level basketball player Vihozhonu Zao, whose death on October 25 sent shockwaves through Kohima.
Addressing reporters on Wednesday, Kohima Superintendent of Police Krodi Rhetso said that the prime accused, Samuel Zao (31) — the victim’s adopted paternal uncle — was arrested on Tuesday and has confessed to the crime.
According to investigators, the incident occurred after an argument between the two at their residence. In a moment of rage, Samuel allegedly struck Vihozhonu with a piece of firewood when she reportedly dismissed his request to make tea.
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Police said the accused later tried to destroy evidence by disposing of the blood-stained sweater he had been wearing at the time of the assault.
Calling it a “difficult blind case,” SP Rhetso praised his team for their persistence and also acknowledged the role of public cooperation in helping trace the culprit.
Vihozhonu’s death had sparked widespread grief in Nagaland’s sporting community, where she was regarded as one of the state’s most promising basketball talents.
