The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old, Obodoagu Wisdom, for allegedly kidnapping and killing his five-year-old second cousin in Udi Local Government Area of the state.
The command also confirmed the arrest of his alleged accomplice, Sunday Michael, a 24-year-old security guard from Mayo-Belwa Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Police spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, said in a statement on Thursday that operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad arrested the suspects on August 11 and 12, 2025, following intelligence gathered after the child was declared missing on July 26.
“Investigations revealed that the prime suspect, Obodoagu Wisdom, used his accomplice to demand N1 million ransom from the victim’s father to hide his identity,” Ndukwe said.
He added that when the ransom demand was not met, the teenager allegedly killed the boy and buried his body in a bush near their home in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi LGA.
“During interrogation, the suspects confessed to the crime. The prime suspect thereafter 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,” Ndukwe stated.
Commissioner of Police, CP Mamman Bitrus Giwa, expressed his condolences to the grieving family and promised that justice would be served.
“The suspects will be arraigned upon conclusion of investigations. The command remains committed to detecting heinous crimes and ensuring justice for victims,” he said.
