The Enugu State Police Command has arrested Obodoagu Wisdom for allegedly kidnapping and gruesomely killing his five-year-old second cousin.
Eighteen-year-old Wisdom, along with his accomplice, 24-year-old Sunday Michael, a security guard at 9th Mile, allegedly demanded ₦1 million in ransom from the boy’s father for the child’s release.
As gathered, Wisdom murdered the young boy and buried him in a bush near his residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi Local Government Area, after the ransom demand went unmet.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Enugu State Command, Daniel Ndukwe, disclosed that the child was reported missing on July 26, prompting officers to launch a search-and-rescue operation.
“Investigations revealed that the prime suspect used his accomplice to demand ₦1,000,000 ransom from the victim’s father in an attempt to conceal his identity.
“When the ransom was not paid, the suspect murdered the child and buried him in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi LGA,” the statement read.
“During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crime. The prime suspect then led operatives to the scene, where the victim’s body was exhumed in the presence of medical personnel, including a doctor, who certified the child dead.”
Reacting to the suspect’s arrest, the Commissioner of Police, Mamman Giwa, commended the operatives for their vigilance and swift intervention.
Giwa extended his condolences to the bereaved family and assured that the suspects will be arraigned upon conclusion of the investigation.
He reiterated the Command’s unwavering commitment to uncovering heinous crimes and ensuring justice is served.
