Chiemeka Arinze, one of the co-defendants in the trial of alleged kidnap kingpin, Chukwudimeme Onwuamadike, alias Evans, has died in the custody of Correctional Services.

According to his death certificate obtained by NAN on Monday, Arinze passed away at 9.08p.m. on November 26 as a result of cardiopulmonary arrest.

The death certificate which was issued by Ajeromi General Hospital, Ajegunle signed by Dr. B.E Salisu indicated that the deceased who died at the age of 45 was also suffering from complicated Advanced HIV.

Arinze was charged alongside, Evans, Joseph Emeka, and Udeme Upong with the attempted kidnap of Chief Vincent Obianodo, the Chairman of the Young Shall Grow Motors

They were arraigned before Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of an Ikeja Special Offences Court.

They were also charged with murder, attempted murder, conspiracy to commit kidnapping, attempt to kidnap and sale and transfer of firearms.

According to officials of the Correctional facilities who spoke under anonymity, Arinze, who was battling ill health, was rushed from the hospital of the Kirikiri Maximum Correctional Centre to a General Hospital on Friday where he passed away.

As at the time of the filing of this report, the counsel to Arinze, Mr Ogedi Ogu is in court for the hearing of kidnapping case which is slated for hearing.

Ogu said he would inform the court of Arinze’s demise and apply to withdraw from the case.