A yet-to-be-identified 12-year-old boy has been found dead after being suspected of drowning in the Ikpoba River in Benin City, Edo State.

The Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, Moses Yamu disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Friday, November 21, 2025.

Yamu said the operatives of the New Benin Division have recovered the corpse of the deceased and deposited it at the hospital for autopsy.

He stated that the incident occurred on November 17, 2025.

He said an investigation is ongoing to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The Command’s image maker, however, advised parents and guardians to exercise greater vigilance over their children and wards, especially during the forthcoming festive period and the dry season.

The Command stated that the periods are when young persons are more likely to engage in risky adventurous outdoor activities unsupervised.

Yamu also advised any parent or guardian whose child matches the description of the deceased to report to the New Benin Division.

While assuring that the Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property, he urged the public to cooperate by reporting suspicious activities or missing persons promptly.

He further advised parents and guardians to closely monitor the movement and activities of their children, warn them about the dangers of swimming in rivers, streams, or other unsafe water bodies, and discourage them from unsupervised play in isolated or high-risk areas.

Other advice is to ensure that young children return home early and are always in the company of trusted adults or guardians, and educate them regularly about personal safety and the consequences of risky adventures.

“To the children and teenagers, avoid swimming or playing around rivers, streams, or deep waters.
Do not go on adventures without informing your parents or guardians.

“Always move in safe, familiar areas and avoid isolated locations. If you notice a friend or peer attempting a risky act, discourage them and seek adult assistance. Your safety is more important than any thrill or challenge”, he added.