Man in custody for alleged murder of neighbor’s 4 year old daughter
The police in Enugu State have apprehended a 30-year-old man in connection with the alleged murder of his neighbor’s four-year-old daughter while she was asleep. This information was disclosed in a statement by Enugu State Police Spokesman, DSP Daniel Ndukw.
On August 18, officers from the Anti-Cultism Tactical Squad responded to an urgent call reporting the murder of the young girl at a residence on Orba Road in Nsukka Local Government Area. Upon arrival, they discovered the child’s lifeless body, which was later pronounced dead by a doctor at a hospital. Her remains have been transferred to the mortuary.
The police spokesman reported that the suspect was found with the knife used in the crime, as well as various substances including what is believed to be hemp and an item suspected to be a charm.
Initial investigations indicate that the suspect, who is originally from Umuagu-Ozalla in Nkanu West Local Government Area but resides in the same compound as the victim’s family, had previously attempted to attack other neighbors. He then entered the victim’s apartment and fatally harmed her while she was asleep.
The child’s mother had fled with other children for safety before returning to find her daughter. The suspect admitted to the crime, attributing his actions to being under the influence of hemp, methamphetamine (known locally as “Mkpuru-mmiri”), and Action Bitters alcoholic drink.
Additionally, the suspect confessed to being a member of the Vikings Confraternity and revealed that in 2022, while living in Jos, Plateau State, he was involved in a cult-related incident that resulted in the murder of a member of a rival cult group.
The suspect will be charged and prosecuted once the investigation is complete. Enugu State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Kanayo Uzuegbu, has condemned the act as barbaric and unimaginable. He extended his condolences to the victim’s family and assured that every effort will be made to deliver justice for the child. The commissioner has instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department to expedite the investigation and ensure a swift prosecution. He also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and aware of their neighbors’ behaviors to prevent such tragic events.
