The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a female suspect following the tragic discovery of four unconscious children at a residential compound in Ideani, Idemili North Local Government Area, an incident that claimed the lives of three of the victims.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, August 5, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said operatives attached to the Ogidi Police Division responded swiftly after receiving information about the incident at Umuoduba Village, Ideani.
According to the statement, the rescue team immediately evacuated the four children to a hospital for emergency treatment. However, medical doctors confirmed three of the victims dead, while the fourth child remains in critical condition and is receiving medical care.
The command disclosed that a female suspect is currently in police custody in connection with the incident, adding that the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has taken over the case for a comprehensive investigation.
“The Command wishes to confirm that a female suspect is currently in Police custody in connection with the incident, as State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) shall take over the case and conduct a thorough, professional, intelligence-driven, and evidence-based investigation,” Ikenga stated.
Police expressed optimism that the surviving child could provide crucial information once medically fit.
“Police Operatives are hopeful that subject to the survivor’s recovery and medical clearance, the testimony of the surviving child will assist in unraveling the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and support other necessary investigative actions,” the statement added.
The bodies of the three deceased children have been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
While extending condolences to the bereaved families and the people of Ideani Community, the Police appealed for calm and urged residents to avoid spreading unverified information as investigations continue.
“The Command… extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and sympathizes with the people of Ideani Community over this heartbreaking incident, urge the public to remain calm, refrain from spreading unverified information, and allow the Police to conclude their investigations.
“Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” Ikenga said.
