The body of a boy believed to have drowned in the Ikpoba River, Benin, on November 17 has been recovered by the Edo State Police Command on Friday.
According to a statement released by Moses Yamu, police spokesperson, the deceased whose identity is yet to be ascertain is aged 12.
The statement read, “The Edo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the body of a yet-to-be-identified young boy, aged about 12 years old, suspected to have drowned in the Ikpoba River, on November 17, 2025, has been recovered by operatives of the New Benin Division and deposited at the hospital for autopsy.
“Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“In light of this unfortunate development, the Command strongly advises parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children and wards, especially during this festive and dry-season period when young persons are more likely to engage in risky adventurous outdoor activities, unsupervised.”
“Ensure young children return home early and are always in the company of trusted adults or guardians as well as educate them regularly about personal safety and the consequences of risky adventures.”
“The Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and urges the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities or missing persons promptly,” he added.