Police recover body of 12-year-old boy who drowned in Edo river
Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have recovered the body of a 12-year-old boy who drowned in the Ikpoba River in Benin City.
The boy was said to have visited the river with a group of other children from St. Saviour to bathe when the tragic incident occurred on November 17, 2025.
The Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, confirmed the development in a statement on Friday, November 21.
“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, 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,” the statement read.
“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.”
He also urged kids to inform their parents before going out, avoid visiting isolated places, and return home on time, noting that safety is more important than any thrill or challenge.
The PPRO encouraged any parent or guardian whose missing child matches the description to report to the New Benin Division.
“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.
These little kids trekked all the way from St. Saviour to Ikpoba River… now one of them has reportedly drowned. This is heartbreaking.
