The Benue State Police Command has arrested a woman identified as Mbalumen Ikyenge following a tragic fire incident that claimed the lives of two young girls in Zaki-Biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
The deceased, aged four and six were daughters of suspect’s boyfriend, Aondoyima Lerkwagh.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Udeme Edet, said the command received a report from the children’s father alleging that an individual had set his house on fire. He noted that investigations are ongoing and that the police are yet to establish the motive behind the incident.
However, according to accounts from neighbours, the tragedy may have been linked to a relationship dispute. Witnesses alleged that the suspect visited her boyfriend’s residence on the night of Sunday July 5, but was asked to leave. She reportedly refused, believing another woman was inside the house.
Neighbours further claimed that the children’s father had locked his two daughters in a separate round hut before retiring to another hut for the night.
According to the witnesses, at about midnight, the suspect allegedly set one of the huts on fire, believing another woman was inside.The fire, however, spread to the hut where the two girls were sleeping.
Residents reportedly rescued the children and rushed them to a nearby hospital, where they later died from severe burn injuries.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that the suspect is in custody and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident and ensure that justice is served.
-9News Nigeria.
