Three children have been found dead inside the residence of a female native doctor in Umuduba Village, Ideani Community, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.

The victims, believed to be between the ages of six and 15, were discovered unconscious in the home of the woman, popularly known in the community as an Ezenwanyi (female native doctor).

A fourth child was rescued alive following the swift intervention of the President General of Ideani Community, Chief Paul Okoye, alongside the Divisional Police Officer of Ogidi Division. The survivor was rushed to a hospital and is currently receiving treatment.

The female suspect was subsequently arrested by police officers who arrived at the scene with the Chairman of Idemili North Local Government Area, Stanley Nkwoka.

Confirming the incident in a statement issued on Wednesday, August 5, 2026, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Command had launched a full-scale investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the tragic deaths.

Ikenga disclosed that the suspect is in police custody, while the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has taken over the case for a thorough, intelligence-driven and evidence-based investigation.

"The Anambra State Police Command today, August 5, 2026, expressed profound sadness over the discovery of four unconscious children at a residential premises in Umuoduba Village, Ideani, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State," the statement read.

"Upon receiving the report, a rescue team led by police operatives attached to Ogidi Police Station immediately evacuated the victims to a hospital for emergency medical attention.

"Sadly, three of the children were confirmed dead by medical doctors, while the fourth victim remains in critical condition and is receiving treatment.

"The Command confirms that a female suspect is currently in police custody in connection with the incident. The State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) has taken over the case and will conduct a comprehensive, professional, intelligence-driven and evidence-based investigation.

"Police operatives are hopeful that, subject to the survivor's recovery and medical clearance, the testimony of the surviving child will help unravel the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident and aid other investigative efforts.

"The bodies of the deceased have been deposited in a mortuary for preservation and autopsy.

"The Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathises with the people of Ideani Community over this heartbreaking incident. We urge members of the public to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information and allow the police to conclude their investigations.

"Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses."

Authorities have yet to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the deaths, while investigations continue. The identities of the deceased children have not been released.