The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old, Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, alongside his 24-year-old accomplice, Sunday Michael, for the kidnapping and brutal murder of his five-year-old second cousin, identified as Obodoagu Wisdom.
The arrests, carried out on August 11 and 12, 2025, followed intelligence operations by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad. Michael, a security guard at 9th Mile from Mayo-Belwa LGA in Adamawa State, was allegedly used by the suspect to disguise ransom demands.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the child was declared missing on July 26, 2025. Investigations revealed that the prime suspect demanded ₦1,000,000 ransom from the victim’s father but went on to murder the child when the demand was not met.
“The suspect buried the victim in a bush near their residence at Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, in Udi Local Government Area,” Ndukwe said.
During interrogation, both suspects confessed to the crime. The prime suspect later led police operatives to the scene, where the body was exhumed in the presence of medical personnel. A doctor at the scene confirmed the child dead.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, expressed deep sympathy to the grieving family and vowed that justice will be served.
“This is a most heinous act, and I assure the public that the suspects will be charged to court at the conclusion of investigations. The Command remains resolute in detecting crimes of this nature and ensuring justice for victims,” CP Giwa said.
The police have urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities in their communities.
