The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old, identified as Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, for allegedly kidnapping and murdering his five-year-old cousin after failing to secure a ₦1 million ransom from the child’s family.
Police also paraded a 24-year-old accomplice, Sunday Michael, a security guard from Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa State, who was said to have helped the teenager in executing the crime.
According to the Command’s spokesperson, SP Daniel Ndukwe, the suspects were arrested on August 11 and 12 by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad following credible intelligence.
“The child was declared missing on July 26, 2025. Investigations revealed that the prime suspect used his accomplice to demand ₦1 million ransom from the victim’s father, disguising his involvement.
When the ransom was not paid, the suspect killed the child and buried the body in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi LGA,” Ndukwe said.
He explained that during interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crime and later led operatives to the shallow grave, where the body of the child was exhumed in the presence of medical personnel. The doctor on ground certified the child dead.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, has expressed deep sympathy to the grieving family and assured that the suspects would be arraigned once investigations are completed.
He further reiterated the Command’s resolve to “relentlessly pursue criminals and ensure justice for victims of such heinous acts.”
The tragic development has thrown the community of Amankwo Ngwo into mourning, with residents describing the killing as “a cruel betrayal of family trust.”
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
