Police arrest suspect for beheading 18-month-old baby in Ondo

Operatives of the Ondo State Police Command have arrested a suspect in Agoti Farm Settlement, Idanre Local Government Area of the state, in connection with the gruesome k!lling of an 18-month-old girl.

The suspect was said to have forcefully taken the baby from her mother after attacking her and subsequently beheaded the child before fleeing the farm settlement.

According to the father of the deceased, Mr Bright Kalu, the tragedy occurred while his wife was at their farm camp with their children.

He said he was away at another farm when the attack took place and was later informed by his wife.

Kalu explained that upon his return, his wife told him that an unknown individual had invaded the camp and attacked her. 

He added that while she was able to secure three of her children, the youngest child could not be found.

He said a search party led by him and his elder brother combed the area before discovering the lifeless body of the toddler behind their residence, with her head severed.

According to him, the incident was reported at the Olofin Police Station in Idanre and was subsequently transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Akure for further investigation.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said detectives had arrested a suspect in connection with the crime.

He disclosed that investigations were ongoing to establish the circumstances surrounding the k!lling and determine whether other persons were involved.

According to him, the suspect will be charged in court upon the conclusion of investigations.

The police command assured residents that no effort would be spared in ensuring that justice is served and urged members of the public to remain calm and cooperate with investigators.

Meanwhile, the bereaved father has appealed to security agencies and relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for the d3ath of his daughter are brought to justice.