Tragedy struck in Okpoko, Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, as the lifeless bodies of abandoned twin babies were discovered in a drainage channel along Cooperative Street, Nwokedi.
According to residents, the infants were found on Sunday morning wrapped inside a box with baby clothing. Passersby who made the discovery immediately alerted personnel of the Okpoko Police Division.
A resident identified simply as Uche, who was among the first to raise the alarm, said the babies were disposed of in a manner that made them easily visible to those passing by.
Police authorities have since confirmed the incident and disclosed that the parents of the twins have been arrested in connection with the case. Investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the deaths and abandonment.
The discovery has sparked outrage and sorrow across the community, with residents calling for justice and stronger measures to protect vulnerable children.
She said, “This is shameful and must not be encouraged as people now engage in such act at will. How can someone in her right senses do this type of thing in this age when we have many orphanages around?”
Another eyewitness said the babies might have been dropped by an irresponsible girl, lady or woman who may not have been ready to take up the responsibility of their upbringing.
The spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a press statement released on Sunday.
Ikenga said the biological parents of the infants have been traced and arrested and are currently in police custody assisting investigators in unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident.
He said the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, described the discovery of the lifeless bodies of the twin infants as a “disturbing case of man’s inhumanity to man” and a gross violation of the sanctity of human life.
According to him, the CP commended police operatives for their swift response and diligent investigative efforts that led to the arrest of the parents of the deceased infants shortly after the incident was reported.
He said, “The Police operatives attached to Okpoko Divisional Police Headquarters, in the early hours of Sunday, June 21, 2026, received information about the discovery of two lifeless infant twins abandoned in a drainage channel along Cooperative Street, Nwokedi, Okpoko.
“Following the report, operatives immediately swung into action, secured the scene, gathered vital evidence, and commenced investigations.
“The preliminary investigation led to the identification and arrest of the biological parents of the infants, who are currently in police custody and assisting investigators in unraveling the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the act in strong terms, noting that every child deserves protection, care, and the opportunity to live.
“He reiterated the Command’s commitment to ensuring that anyone found culpable in the incident faces the full weight of the law.
“Investigation into the matter is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated in due course.”
