The Enugu State Police Command has arrested an 18-year-old, Obodoagu Ikediekpere Wisdom, for the alleged kidnapping and murder of his five-year-old second cousin, also named Obodoagu Wisdom.
The Command also confirmed the arrest of his accomplice, Sunday Michael, a 24-year-old security guard at 9th Mile Corner, Enugu, and a native of Mayo-Belwa Local Council, Adamawa State.
The Command’s spokesperson, Daniel Ndukwe, said the suspects were arrested on August 11 and 12, 2025, by operatives of the Anti-Kidnapping Tactical Squad following intelligence gathered after ransom demands were reported.
He said the child was first declared missing on July 26, 2025. Investigations revealed that the prime suspect used his accomplice to demand N1 million ransom from the victim’s father in an attempt to disguise his identity.
When the ransom was not paid, the suspect allegedly murdered the child and buried him in a bush near their residence in Okinitor, Amankwo Ngwo, Udi Local Council.
Ndukwe added that the suspects confessed to the crime during interrogation. The prime suspect later 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.
The Commissioner of Police, Enugu State Command, Mamman Bitrus Giwa, commiserated with the bereaved family and assured them that the suspects would be arraigned upon the conclusion of investigations.
He reiterated the Command’s commitment to detecting heinous crimes and ensuring justice.
