Appeal over 2004 killing of Paiche Onyemaechi (25)

Gardaí­ and Crimestoppers have appealed for new information on the death of a woman whose body was found near a bridge in Co Kilkenny more than 11 years ago.

Paiche Onyemaechi (25), nee Unyolo, had been living in Ireland since 1999 and moved to Waterford in May of 2001, but was reported missing on July 10th, 2004.

Her badly beaten and decapitated body was found 13 days later in a field beside Brenar Bridge in the Piltown area of south Kilkenny.

She had two young sons and was living in Herblion Park in Waterford and working in Limerick.

Originally from Malawi, Ms Onyemaechi was the daughter of the Malawian chief justice at the time.

An anonymous letter was sent to gardaí­ in 2004 which Det Supt Michael Hennebry of Kilkenny Garda station on Friday said “contained information on the culprits” behind Ms Onyemaechi’s killing.

“We would like to speak to anyone who feels they have information relevant to this case, particularly those in the African community living in Waterford at the time, and also to the wider African community living in Ireland,” Det Supt Henebry said.

“With the passage of time people may be more inclined to share information they have in their possession. Even the smallest piece of information, which may seem insignificant, might help with the investigation.”

Members of the public can contact Thomastown Garda station on 056-7754150, any Garda station, or Crimestoppers on 1800-250025.