Anambra State Police Command has commenced a full-scale investigation into the death of three out of four children found unconscious at the residence of a self-acclaimed prophetess in Umuoduba Village, Ideani Community, Idemili North Local Government Area of the state.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Awka.
According to him, operatives attached to the Ogidi Police Division responded swiftly after receiving information about the incident and immediately evacuated the victims to a hospital for emergency medical attention.
He said three of the children were confirmed dead by medical doctors, while the fourth child is receiving treatment in a critical condition.
“Regrettably, three of the children were certified dead by medical doctors, while the fourth victim is currently receiving treatment in a critical condition,” Ikenga said.
The police spokesperson confirmed that a female suspect has been taken into custody in connection with the incident.
He added that the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has taken over the case and will conduct a thorough, professional, intelligence-driven and evidence-based investigation.
“Given the development, the Command wishes to confirm that a female suspect is currently in police custody in connection with the incident, while the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) shall take over the case and conduct a thorough, professional, intelligence-driven and evidence-based investigation,” he stated.
Ikenga expressed optimism that the testimony of the surviving child would provide crucial information to aid investigators once the victim recovers and is medically cleared to speak.
“The Police Operatives are hopeful that, subject to the survivor’s recovery and medical clearance, the testimony of the surviving child will assist in unraveling the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and support other necessary investigative actions,” he added.
He further disclosed that the bodies of the deceased children had been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.
The command extended its condolences to the bereaved families and the Ideani community, urging residents to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information while investigations continue.
“Further developments will be communicated as the investigation progresses,” the statement added.
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