The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has successfully recovered a four-year-old boy, Hope Evans, who was abducted from his school in Port Harcourt two months ago. The toddler was handed over to his relieved mother, Miss Lydia Jonah Gabriel, in Abuja on December 6, 2024.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Olatunji Disu, disclosed during the handover that the case was solved through advanced technology and dedicated investigative work.
The ordeal began on October 31, 2024, when Hope was reported missing from Community Primary School Azubie in Port Harcourt. According to school officials, an unidentified woman, later identified as Blessing Okoi, lured the boy away from the school premises around 1:28 p.m. by offering him biscuits and a boiled egg.
The disappearance was only discovered later that evening when Hope’s family realized he was missing. Upon investigation, it was revealed that the woman, known locally as “Destiny’s mum,” had fled her residence the same night.
The case was initially reported to the Trans Amadi Police Station and later transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID). When suspicions arose that the suspect had relocated to Abuja, Hope’s aunt filed a report with the FCT Police Command.
CP Disu immediately ordered a detailed investigation, leading officers to trace Okoi’s movements to Maraba, Abuja. After weeks of relentless efforts, the suspect was arrested on November 29, 2024, and Hope was rescued unharmed.
During questioning, Okoi falsely claimed to be Hope’s biological mother and had renamed him “David Evans.” She also alleged that Hope was the child of her former lover, whom she had deceived into believing the boy was his son.
Further investigation revealed another twist: Okoi was found with another young boy she claimed was her biological child, though she alleged the father had passed away.
The emotional reunion between Hope and his mother took place at the office of CP Disu, who emphasized the importance of vigilance in schools. He advised school proprietors to prioritize the safety of children under their care.
“The joy of the mother and son knows no bounds,” CP Disu remarked. He praised the officers who worked tirelessly to bring the child back home and assured the public that the suspect would face justice.
Hope has since undergone medical checks and is in good health. Meanwhile, Blessing Okoi remains in police custody, pending further investigation and subsequent court proceedings.
The case underscores the importance of collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community in tackling child abduction and ensuring justice.