Edo man arrested for allegedly killing four-yr-old son while under drug influence

The Edo State Police Command has arrested one Theophilus Osazuwa for allegedly killing his four-year-old son, Testimony Osazuwa, in what appears to be a drug-induced episode.

According to a statement released by the police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, on Wednesday night, the tragic incident occurred around 12:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the family’s residence in Ogbeson Quarters, off Benin-Agbor Road in Benin City.

Osazuwa reportedly returned home and suddenly exhibited erratic behavior, falling into what witnesses described as a trance. Shouting “Holy Ghost fire,” he grabbed his young son and violently slammed him against a wall.

“The suspect was said to have arrived at his home on 24/12/2024 at about 1230 hrs, went berserk screaming ‘Holy Ghost fire,’ then reached for the four-year-old boy and slammed him to the wall,” Yamu stated.

The boy was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Read also: ‘Reports of NAF airstrikes in Sokoto communities false’, security counters LG chairman

Preliminary investigations suggest that Osazuwa, who is reportedly known for his use of illicit substances, may have been under their influence at the time of the incident.

The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Umoru Ozigi, expressed his condolences to the family and strongly condemned the incident. He also used the opportunity to caution youths against the dangers of consuming illicit drugs, citing their devastating impact on mental health and the safety of individuals and those around them.

“Drug abuse has far-reaching consequences that not only destroy lives but also lead to unimaginable harm to innocent people. We urge everyone to steer clear of such harmful substances,” the Commissioner stated.

The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue, with authorities vowing to ensure justice for the young victim.

Join the conversation

Opinions

Support Ripples Nigeria, hold up solutions journalism

Balanced, fearless journalism driven by data comes at huge financial costs.

As a media platform, we hold leadership accountable and will not trade the right to press freedom and free speech for a piece of cake.

If you like what we do, and are ready to uphold solutions journalism, kindly donate to the Ripples Nigeria cause.

Your support would help to ensure that citizens and institutions continue to have free access to credible and reliable information for societal development.

Donate Now