Home / Crime and Justice / UEA Student Fatally Stabbed in Student Housing
UEA Student Fatally Stabbed in Student Housing
25 Nov, 2025
Summary
- A Nigerian man named Uchenna Okirie tragically died from stab wounds.
- Police arrested and charged Benjamin Katabana with murder.
- The victim was a postgraduate student and Red Cross volunteer.
Tragically, Uchenna Okirie, a Nigerian man in his 30s and a postgraduate student at the University of East Anglia, has died after being stabbed. The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday morning at Somerleyton House, a student and professional accommodation. Emergency services responded to the scene and attempted to save his life, but he succumbed to his injuries.
A murder investigation was swiftly launched by authorities, leading to the arrest and subsequent charging of Benjamin Katabana, a 27-year-old Congolese national. Katabana is set to appear in court. Okirie was known not only for his academic pursuits, including research on climate change's health impacts, but also for his volunteer work with the British Red Cross and his role as an international student ambassador.
The University of East Anglia confirmed they are providing support to current students residing at Somerleyton House. The university spokesperson stated they have contacted all affected students, ensuring they receive necessary assistance during this period of grief and uncertainty following the fatal stabbing.
