Teenager Arrested for Kidnapping and Murder of Neighbor’s Child
In the Bukuru community of Jos South Local Government Area in Plateau State, a 17-year-old student named Elijah Anthony shocked residents by kidnapping and murdering a 5-year-old neighbor, Dawon Pam. This case has stirred deep concern over youth involvement in criminal acts and the impact of economic hardship on vulnerable individuals.
Kidnapping and Ransom
Anthony, a Senior Secondary School 3 student at Manret High School, teamed up with an accomplice, Malik. They kidnapped Dawon on October 13 and forced him into an unfinished building. The kidnappers demanded N5 million at first. After negotiations, the family paid N400,000 for Dawon’s return.
While the Pam family searched for their missing son, Anthony pretended he did not know the boy’s location. He even joined the search, hiding his true involvement in the crime. Five days after the kidnapping, Anthony strangled Dawon. He feared that the child would recognize him if released, a fear that drove him to commit the murder. He then buried the body in a nearby swamp.
Investigation and Arrest
The police tracked the phone number used during the ransom negotiation. This breakthrough led them directly to Anthony. During the investigation, authorities learned that the teenager had used his mother’s phone without her knowledge to arrange the ransom. He admitted that economic hardship forced him to take such drastic measures.
Plateau State Commissioner of Police, Okoro Julius Alawari, reported that the police quickly apprehended the teenager after receiving the ransom money. He promised a thorough investigation to capture Malik, who remains at large. The police now work hard to uncover more details surrounding the crime.
Community Reaction and Impact
The tragic death of Dawon has deeply disturbed the community. Neighbors express shock and sadness over the loss of an innocent child. Local residents now call for increased security and support for struggling families. The case raises hard questions about youth delinquency and economic despair in the region.
Community leaders have urged local authorities to take decisive action. They want preventive measures and social programs to help young people facing economic difficulties. Many believe that addressing poverty can reduce the risk of similar tragedies in the future.
Looking Forward
Investigators continue to gather evidence and hope to arrest Malik soon. They promise transparency and community involvement in the investigation. Residents now look to the police for reassurance and swift justice for the slain child.
Authorities have vowed to intensify efforts against criminal activities in the area. They also plan to work with community leaders to provide better support systems. The hope remains that stronger community bonds and economic support will prevent future incidents.
