…the suspects were apprehended on August 11 and 12, 2025, by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad.
ENUGU, NIGERIA – The iNews Times | The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old man, Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, for the kidnapping and brutal murder of his five-year-old second cousin, also named Obodoagu Wisdom. The suspect’s alleged accomplice, 24-year-old Sunday Michael, a security guard from Mayo-Belwa in Adamawa State, was also taken into custody.
The suspects were apprehended on August 11 and 12, 2025, by operatives of the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad. Their arrest followed intelligence reports triggered by a ransom demand issued after the boy’s disappearance.
The tragic case began on July 26, 2025, when the child was first declared missing. Investigations revealed that the prime suspect, a close relative of the victim, had orchestrated the kidnap and used his accomplice to demand ₦1 million from the boy’s father in an attempt to conceal his identity.
When the ransom was not paid, the suspect reportedly murdered the child and buried his body in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi Local Government Area.
During interrogation, both suspects confessed to the crime. The teenage prime suspect later led police operatives to the burial site, where the body was exhumed in the presence of medical professionals, including a doctor who confirmed the child’s death.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, condemned the horrific act and expressed deep sympathy to the grieving family.
“This is a deeply tragic and inexcusable crime. Our hearts go out to the family of the innocent child. I assure the public that the suspects will face the full weight of the law. We remain fully committed to pursuing justice in all such heinous crimes,” CP Giwa said.
The Commissioner also confirmed that the suspects will be arraigned in court upon the completion of the ongoing investigation.
The case has sent shockwaves through the Enugu community, with many calling for swift and decisive justice. Security experts and residents alike have expressed concern over the rising trend of family-related crimes and urged parents to remain vigilant.
As investigations continue, the police reiterated their appeal for citizens to report suspicious activity promptly, assuring that every lead would be pursued to prevent future tragedies.
