Police Arrest Anambra Mother for Allegedly Burning Daughter with Hot Knife Over Meat  

Seven-year-old rescued in Awada-Obosi, in custody as govt assures medical care, justice

AWKA — The Anambra State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old woman, Ogechi Ofoma, for allegedly abusing and inflicting serious bodily injuries on her seven-year-old daughter in Ibollo community, Awada-Obosi, Idemili North Local Government Area.

The child, identified as Oluebube, was allegedly burnt with a hot knife after being accused of taking meat from a pot.

Police said the suspect was arrested on Sunday, September 13, 2026, through joint efforts of community security personnel, residents and the State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare. She is currently in custody at Awada Police Station pending investigation.

In a statement on Monday, the Command’s spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident and condemned the alleged abuse.

Ikenga said the Command received a report on the evening of September 13 concerning severe bodily injuries sustained by the seven-year-old.

“The prompt intervention of security personnel from the Ibollo Community, Awada-Obosi, and concerned residents led to the child’s rescue and the arrest of her mother, Mrs Ogechi Ofoma, 32,” Ikenga stated.

“Preliminary information indicates that the child was allegedly subjected to severe physical abuse, including injuries reportedly inflicted with a hot knife.”

He said Commissioner of Police, Nnanna Ama, has begun collaborating with the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare to ensure the victim receives urgent medical care, protection and welfare support.

The Command praised the vigilance of Ibollo community security personnel and residents whose intervention prevented further harm.

“The investigation will be thorough, professional, and uncompromising. The welfare, safety, and best interests of the child remain paramount,” the statement added.

Reacting, the Commissioner for Women and Social Welfare, Esther Onyekesi, described the alleged act as “inhumane and a gross violation” of the rights and dignity of a child.

She commended the police for their prompt response and stressed the importance of collaboration between security agencies and social welfare authorities in protecting vulnerable persons.

Onyekesi reaffirmed the state government’s commitment under Governor Chukwuma Soludo to creating a safer environment for children free from violence and exploitation, warning that anyone found culpable of violating children’s rights would face the full weight of the law.

She urged residents to remain vigilant and report cases of maltreatment, neglect or threats to children’s safety to appropriate authorities.