The Rivers State Police Command has arrested four individuals, including a native doctor and a teenage girl, for allegedly drugging and murdering two underage siblings in Rukpokwu, Rivers State.
According to police investigations, the prime suspect, 27-year-old Aniekan Uko, admitted to luring the children into an abandoned building, drugging them, and draining their blood for ritual purposes.
A lawyer assisting in the investigation, Linda Ojims, revealed that the children were on their way home from church when Uko intercepted them.
“He took them to an uncompleted building and drugged them before carrying out the heinous act,” Ojims said, describing the case as “deeply disturbing” and emphasizing the need for justice.
The Rivers State Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest of the suspects in a statement on Wednesday, March 26.
“This is a horrific crime, and we assure the public that justice will be served. The prime suspect, Aniekan Uko, has confessed to the crime and admitted he was influenced by a native doctor,” Iringe-Koko stated.
According to the police, Uko disclosed that he had witnessed the native doctor perform similar rituals for others in exchange for wealth. He was allegedly instructed to provide fresh human remains and blood as part of the ritual process.
The Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, assured the public that all suspects would face the full weight of the law. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
“Investigations are ongoing to uncover further details and possible accomplices. The safety and security of all citizens remain our top priority,” Adepoju said.
The victims’ bodies have been taken to the mortuary for autopsy and preservation.
Ojims commended the police for swiftly arresting the suspects but emphasized the need for a thorough trial.
“This case is of public interest, and justice must be served. If these perpetrators were not caught, they could have continued their crimes. We expect the police to handle this case with diligence,” she said.
She further urged the police to prepare solid findings and ensure the case was prosecuted efficiently in court.
“These innocent children need justice. After the investigation, the matter should be properly filed in court, and we are ready to follow up. We hope this case serves as a warning to others involved in such evil acts,” Ojims added.
The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that updates on the case will be provided as investigations continue.