The Federal Capital Territory Police Command has arrested a resident of Durumi 2, in Abuja, following the tragic death of a three-year-old boy who drowned in an uncovered soakaway pit on Tuesday night.
The suspect, identified as Philip Jallo, was taken into custody by operatives from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters following the incident.
According to reports, the child was playing within the residential compound when he slipped and fell into the exposed septic tank filled with human waste.
The three-year-old was pulled out but was later confirmed dead at the hospital.
The FCT Police Public Relations Officer, Josephine Adeh, in a statement on Friday, said, “Preliminary investigation revealed that the uncovered soak away had long posed a danger to residents in the area. Several warnings and pleas were reportedly made by concerned neighbours to the suspect, who failed to take necessary action. ”
The statement noted that the FCT Commissioner of Police, Ajao Adewale, has commiserated with the bereaved family and expressed his sadness.
“He also urges residents to take environmental safety seriously, while parents and guardians must also be vigilant and ensure their wards are properly monitored at all times to prevent such needless loss of life,” the statement added.
The police announced that the suspect will remain in custody while the investigation continues.
Credit: punchng.com
