Terror gripped residents of Unity Road in Trans Ekulu, Enugu State, on Monday, July 21, 2025, after the lifeless bodies of two children—aged four and three months—were discovered in their home, with their mother, 29-year-old Chidinma Arinze, arrested at the scene for alleged m#rder. Police sources have described the killing as one of the most horrific domestic incidents in the state’s recent history.
According to initial findings, officers from the Trans Ekulu Police Division responded to a distress call at around 9:00 a.m. Upon arrival at No. 47 Unity Road, they found the bodies of Esther Arinze and her baby brother, Chibusoma, bearing visible wounds consistent with attacks by a sharp object. Their mother was reportedly calm and offered no resistance when arrested on-site.
Medical officers at the Enugu State University Teaching Hospital (ESUT) Parklane confirmed both children dead on arrival. Their remains have since been deposited at the hospital morgue for autopsy, while the suspect is in custody as preliminary investigations progress. The Enugu State Police Command says the case will be handed over to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for a deeper probe.
Community members were left shaken by the tragedy. Several neighbours described Chidinma as reclusive but never threatening. “We had no warning signs. She kept to herself, but we never imagined something this dark could happen just next door,” one neighbour said under anonymity.
Law enforcement officials have not confirmed a motive, but early speculation from local residents suggests the mother may have been battling an undiagnosed postpartum mental health condition. A senior police officer revealed that psychological evaluation is already being considered as part of the investigation.
The police have promised a thorough, sensitive approach to the case, given the emotional and social gravity. “This tragedy is a wound to the heart of the community,” the officer said. “We are looking at every angle, and the integrity of the investigation will not be compromised.”
Across Trans Ekulu and beyond, the news has sparked nationwide conversations about mental health, parental stress, and the lack of support systems for young mothers. Meanwhile, vigils are being held in the neighbourhood, with residents praying for the innocent souls lost and justice for the tragedy that has scarred the community.
