THREE-YEAR-OLD BOY FOUND DEAD A DAY AFTER GOING MISSING IN DELTA

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By Aishat Momoh. O.

The Sapele area of Delta State has been thrown into grief following the discovery of the body of a three-year-old boy, identified as Master Lemuel, a day after he was reported missing in the Uko Road area of the town.

The incident has raised concerns over child safety in the community, with residents calling for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the boy’s disappearance and death.

According to family sources, Lemuel was playing with other children in the neighbourhood on Monday before he was reportedly sent by his father to purchase an item.

The boy, who was said to have been unwell at the time, reportedly failed to return home after leaving on the errand.

His parents, relatives and neighbours subsequently commenced a search for him, while his father reportedly visited Gana Police Station to formally report the child missing and seek assistance.

The search continued into the night but ended tragically the following morning when the boy’s lifeless body was reportedly found close to the family residence.

A suspect has reportedly been arrested in connection with the incident, while the police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the child’s disappearance and death.

Meanwhile, the Sapele Local Government Council has expressed condolences to the bereaved family and called for a thorough investigation.

The council chairman, Bright Abeke, represented by the Secretary to the Local Government, Raymond Overah, led a delegation of officials on a condolence visit to the family.

Overah expressed sadness over the incident and assured the family that the council would support efforts to uncover what led to the boy’s death.

He said the chairman had directed relevant security agencies to intensify their investigation, identify anyone connected with the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable faced the law.

“The council is deeply saddened by this tragic loss. We urge the security agencies to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the death and ensure that anyone found responsible is brought to justice,” he said.

The council also appealed to residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons, movements or activities to security agencies.

The incident has continued to generate shock among residents, many of whom have called for stronger measures to protect children in the community.