By Deborah Nnamdi
Police operatives from the Durumi Divisional Headquarters, under the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command, have arrested one Philip Jallo following the tragic death of a 3-year-old boy who drowned in an uncovered septic tank in Durumi 2, Abuja.
The incident occurred around 9:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, 2025. According to reports, the toddler had been playing within a residential compound when he accidentally slipped and fell into the open soakaway, which was filled with human waste.
In a statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josephine Adeh, Jallo was accused of gross negligence after allegedly ignoring multiple warnings from concerned neighbors to cover the exposed septic tank.
“Preliminary investigations revealed that the soakaway had long posed a serious hazard in the area,” SP Adeh stated. “Despite repeated warnings, the suspect failed to address the danger.”
The child was eventually retrieved from the tank and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
Jallo remains in police custody as investigations continue.
Reacting to the tragedy, the FCT Commissioner of Police expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to the bereaved family. He also issued a strong public advisory, urging residents to take environmental safety seriously and eliminate avoidable hazards within their surroundings.
“Parents and guardians must remain vigilant to prevent such needless loss of life,” he said.
The FCT Police Command reiterated its commitment to enforcing accountability and protecting public safety across the territory.
