Two Arrested Over Murder of Widow’s 17-Year-Old Son in Benin River Tragedy

Tragedy has struck in Delta State as the police from A Division in Warri have arrested two suspects in connection with the mysterious death of 17-year-old Jasper, the only son of a widow, whose body was discovered with signs of violence after he was reportedly sent on an errand to assist with event decorations.

The heartbreaking incident unfolded when Jasper was dispatched by his mother last week to Benin City, Edo State, where he was to lend a hand to a female decorator working on an event. What began as a routine request for help soon turned into a devastating tale of loss and suspicion.

Initial reports suggested that Jasper had drowned in a river, a theory that began to circulate and soon reached his mother. However, that version of events would soon be questioned as disturbing new facts came to light.

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Murder or Accident? The Focus Shifts to Suspected Foul Play

 “Murder” has now taken center stage as the case rapidly evolves from a supposed drowning to a possible homicide. After news of Jasper’s death reached Warri, his family took steps to retrieve his body and bring him back home for burial. It was during this process that a chilling discovery was made—his corpse bore visible signs of physical trauma.

The injuries raised immediate red flags for his relatives and community members, prompting the family to reject the notion of accidental drowning. With suspicion of foul play mounting, the matter was reported to the police in Delta State, who swiftly launched an investigation.

Following preliminary inquiries, two suspects linked to the event where Jasper had been sent to work were taken into custody by officers from the A Division in Warri. Although the murder allegedly took place in Edo State, the cross-state nature of the crime means both Delta and Edo State police departments may need to coordinate their efforts.

Police Remain Guarded as Investigation Unfolds

Speaking on the matter, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Bright Edafe, clarified that the murder investigation technically falls under the jurisdiction of the Edo State Police Command, as the incident occurred in Benin City.

“It is the police spokesperson in Benin who is to speak on the matter,” Edafe told reporters, underlining the administrative boundaries that may affect the flow of information.

No official statement has yet been issued by the Edo State Police Command, though pressure is mounting for transparency and swift justice. The silence from Edo authorities has done little to quell the rising tension in Warri, where Jasper’s tragic story continues to elicit anger and sorrow.

Community and Family Demand Justice

Jasper’s mother, who remains inconsolable, has demanded that the authorities conduct a thorough and honest investigation to uncover the truth behind her son’s untimely death. As a widow, Jasper was her only son and primary support, making the loss especially devastating.

Community members, already wary of unsolved crimes and growing insecurity, have rallied behind the grieving mother. Many are calling for justice, not just for Jasper but for all victims of unresolved murders that plague both states.

Activists and local leaders have also spoken up, urging police in Edo and Delta States to set aside jurisdictional limitations and work collaboratively to bring the perpetrators to book.

The young man’s funeral has been temporarily put on hold pending the outcome of the autopsy and further investigations. It is hoped that the two suspects currently in custody will provide critical leads that could help authorities determine whether Jasper was the victim of a premeditated attack or a tragic accident that was poorly covered up.

As the family waits in agony for answers, one thing is clear: the call for justice for Jasper is loud, and it is growing.