In a tragic incident in Gboko, Benue State, the body of a newborn baby was found floating in a stream on Tuesday morning. Residents of the area made the grim discovery and alerted the police.
Discovery and Police Response
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that officers were dispatched to the scene after receiving a distress call. The baby's body was recovered and taken to a nearby hospital for autopsy.
Police spokesperson Catherine Anene said, "We are investigating the circumstances surrounding the death of this innocent child. We urge anyone with information to come forward."
Community Shock
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the community. Residents expressed sadness and anger over the incident. Many called for a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Local leader Chief Orshio Igbana said, "This is a heinous act. We cannot allow such evil to thrive in our community. We appeal to the police to do everything possible to find those responsible."
Ongoing Investigation
Police have launched a full-scale investigation. They are interviewing residents and reviewing CCTV footage from nearby areas. The autopsy results are expected to provide more details on the cause of death.
The police have also called on parents and guardians to be more responsible and seek help if they are unable to care for their children. They reminded the public that abandoning a child is a criminal offense.
This incident highlights the need for better support systems for vulnerable mothers and children. Social welfare organizations have been urged to step up efforts to prevent such tragedies.
