A shocking child abduction case has emerged in Delta State, where a woman allegedly kidnapped two infants in a desperate attempt to conceal the death of her twin babies before a planned church dedication ceremony.
The suspect, identified as Joy, was arrested by operatives of the Delta State Police Command following investigations into the disappearance of two children from separate locations.
Police authorities described the incident as one of the most disturbing cases of child theft recently recorded in the state.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, preliminary investigations revealed that the woman allegedly targeted vulnerable families and used deception to gain access to the children before taking them away.
In one of the reported incidents, the suspect reportedly visited a groundnut-selling point and pretended to be a customer. While attention was diverted elsewhere, she allegedly tricked a 14-year-old girl who was caring for a four-month-old baby and escaped with the child.
Further investigations uncovered a second abduction carried out in a similar manner. Police said the suspect had approached an 18-year-old mother under the pretense of helping her secure a housemaid.
During their interaction, she allegedly gained the young mother’s trust and later disappeared with her infant while they were out together.
During interrogation, Joy reportedly confessed to the crimes and provided details of what motivated her actions. She told investigators that her biological twin babies had died when they were only six weeks old.
According to her statement, preparations for their dedication ceremony had already been completed before the tragedy occurred.
She explained that invitations had been distributed and arrangements finalized by her husband ahead of the event.
Faced with the prospect of explaining the loss of the twins to family members, friends and invited guests, she allegedly decided to find replacement children.
Police said the suspect admitted abducting a male child several weeks ago before taking a female infant shortly before the scheduled dedication service.
The two children were allegedly presented as her own and taken to the dedication ceremony.
The revelation has generated widespread shock, with many expressing concern over the lengths to which some individuals may go to hide personal tragedies.
Law enforcement authorities noted that the case highlights the dangers of leaving children in the care of unfamiliar persons.
SP Edafe urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant and exercise caution when interacting with strangers, regardless of how trustworthy they may appear.
He stressed that child safety should remain a top priority at all times.
Police confirmed that both abducted children have been rescued and reunited with authorities, while investigations continue to determine whether other individuals may have been involved in the incident.
The suspect remains in police custody and is expected to face prosecution upon the conclusion of investigations.
