The Nasarawa State Police Command has begun a full investigation into the heartbreaking death of five children who were found unresponsive inside an abandoned vehicle in the Agyaragu community of Obi Local Government Area.
This was confirmed on Monday by the State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Ramhan Nansel, during a briefing in Lafia. He revealed that the lifeless bodies of the children, aged between six and ten years, were discovered on Sunday evening inside a disused vehicle parked at the residence of one Mr. Abu Agyeme.
“Upon arrival, the officers found the victims locked inside the abandoned vehicle. They were promptly evacuated to Aro Hospital, Agyaragu, where a medical doctor regrettably confirmed all of them dead due to suspected suffocation,” Nansel stated.
He added that a resident, Mr. Ozimna Ogbor, had reported the incident to the police around 5:30 p.m., raising alarm after discovering the children inside the vehicle.
Commissioner of Police, Shetima Jauro-Mohammed, expressed deep sorrow over the incident and offered condolences to the bereaved families. He has ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
The commissioner also issued a stern caution to parents, guardians, and vehicle owners to remain vigilant, stressing the dangers of leaving abandoned or unserviceable vehicles accessible to children.
“This heartbreaking incident is a painful reminder of a similar tragedy that occurred in August 2019,” Nansel said.
Due to the severe heat burns on the children’s bodies, their remains were released to their families for burial following a formal request.
As investigations continue, the police urge the public to take greater precautions, especially during Nigeria’s increasingly hot weather, to prevent such avoidable tragedies.
