Residents of Unity Road in Trans Ekulu, Enugu, were thrown into mourning on Monday following the shocking discovery of two young children allegedly murdered by their mother in a suspected case of mental breakdown.
The victims, Esther Arinze, aged four, and her three-month-old brother, Chibusoma Arinze, were found lifeless inside their home at No. 47 Unity Road. According to police sources, the children had visible injuries believed to have been inflicted with a sharp object.
The suspect, identified as Chidima Arinze, was taken into custody at the scene without resistance. Neighbours who discovered the gruesome scene raised an alarm, prompting a swift response from the Divisional Police Officer of Trans Ekulu. Officers arrived at the home around 9:00 a.m. on July 21 to find the bodies of the children.
Police immediately cordoned off the area and documented the scene before transferring the bodies to the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT), Parklane, where medical personnel confirmed the deaths. The remains have been deposited in the hospital morgue for autopsy.
While the motive remains unclear, police have launched a full investigation. The case is currently being handled by the Trans Ekulu Division but will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further inquiry, including a psychological assessment of the suspect.
“This is one of the most heartbreaking incidents we’ve encountered,” a senior police officer said. “We are taking every necessary step to understand what happened and ensure justice is served.”
Some community members speculated the suspect may have been suffering from postpartum depression or other mental health challenges. “She was always quiet and kept to herself,” said a neighbour. “Nobody expected anything like this.”
The Trans Ekulu community remains stunned by the tragedy, with residents expressing grief over the loss of two innocent lives and the unraveling of a family.
“It’s a tragedy that has shaken all of us,” a resident said. “Now, two children are gone, and their mother is in police custody. Everyone is heartbroken.”
