Armed robber forces 4-year-old into washing machine during Lagos home invasion
A terrifying home invasion in Lagos State left a family shaken after an armed robber allegedly forced a four-year-old girl into a washing machine and attempted to switch it on before being stopped by neighbours. The incident happened in the early hours when the suspect broke into the residence of the victim’s family in a quiet neighbourhood, brandishing a firearm and demanding money. Neighbours say the assailant appeared agitated and unpredictable, and when the child’s mother tried to intervene to protect her daughter, he forced the little girl into the open-door washing machine before attempting to power the appliance.
The girl’s terrified cries alerted neighbours who rushed into the compound, overpowering the intruder and preventing him from turning on the machine. Residents restrained the suspect and called local security operatives, who arrived shortly afterwards to take him into custody. The young girl, though shaken and traumatised by the ordeal, was unharmed physically, and her parents and neighbours praised the swift action that averted what could have been a catastrophic outcome.
Community leaders have condemned the attack, stressing the need for improved neighbourhood vigilance and better policing to protect families from violent crime. The police confirmed that the suspect is in custody and will be charged with armed robbery and endangering the life of a child, with investigators seeking to establish his motive and whether he acted alone. The family has asked for privacy as they care for the emotional well-being of the child in the aftermath of the frightening episode.
The incident has sparked wider conversations on social media about home security, child safety and community responsibility in preventing violent crimes. Many Nigerians expressed shock and outrage at the details of the attack, calling on authorities to enhance measures that safeguard vulnerable citizens, particularly children, from such brutal acts.
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