Police officers from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters, operating under the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, have apprehended a man named Philip Jallo in connection with the tragic death of a 3-year-old boy who drowned in an uncovered septic tank in Durumi 2, Abuja.
The devastating event took place around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2025, when the young boy, who was reportedly playing inside the compound, accidentally slipped and fell into the open soakaway filled with human waste.
In an official statement, FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, disclosed that the suspect is facing allegations of gross negligence after allegedly disregarding multiple warnings from neighbors to properly cover the dangerous septic tank.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the uncovered soakaway had long posed a danger to residents in the area,” Adeh said. “Several warnings and pleas were reportedly made by concerned neighbours to the suspect, who failed to take the necessary action.”
The child was eventually retrieved from the tank and taken to the hospital, where he was sadly confirmed dead.
Jallo remains in custody while investigations continue. The FCT Commissioner of Police has expressed profound sadness over the incident and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the grieving family.
The Commissioner also issued a stern advisory to residents, stressing the importance of maintaining safety in their immediate environments.
“Parents and guardians must be vigilant and ensure their wards are properly monitored at all times to prevent such needless loss of life,” he stated.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its dedication to holding individuals accountable in cases involving threats to public safety.