The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 40-year-old man, Alfred Bassey, from Abi in Cross River State, over the reported sudden death of his seven-year-old child. The tragic incident occurred at a construction site along the Trans-Nkisi Layout in Onitsha.

Police operatives from the 3-3 Divisional Headquarters apprehended the suspect on the morning of December 13, 2024, as part of an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the child’s death. Preliminary findings reveal that Mr. Bassey had forcibly taken the child from the mother and had been living with him in an uncompleted building at the Trans-Nkisi Layout.

On December 11, 2024, the lifeless body of the child was discovered in a soakaway pit within the abandoned building. Reports indicate that the father had left the child unattended and departed for an unknown destination. The child’s body was recovered and taken to a hospital, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and admonished parents to prioritize the safety and well-being of their children, regardless of any differences with their spouses. He emphasized the need to protect children from emotional and psychological trauma, which can lead to such tragic outcomes.

The CP has ordered the immediate transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID) in Awka for a comprehensive investigation to ensure justice is served.