The United States government has announced a reward of $25,000 (approximately N43 million) for information that can lead to the arrest of Olalekan Abimbola Olawusi, a Nigerian man wanted in connection with the alleged murder of his son.
Olawusi, 48, a resident of Rhode Island, is facing charges of first-degree murder for inflicting serious bodily harm on his three-month-old son. He is also facing charges of unlawful flight to avoid prosecution. Olawusi has been added to the U.S. Marshals Service’s “15 Most Wanted Fugitives” list.
According to a statement from Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Don Freeman, the reward is being offered for any information that could lead to Olawusi’s capture.
The tragic incident occurred on April 3, 2017, when the authorities found the infant severely injured. Emergency responders and police discovered the child, who had been injured in 18 parts of his body. He was rushed to the hospital, where the severity of his injuries led to an investigation into his father’s involvement.
Following his arrest, Olawusi was arraigned on April 20, 2017. However, he was released on the same day, and shortly thereafter, his whereabouts became unknown as he went into hiding. The U.S. Marshals are now actively seeking information about his location.
Authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward and assist in bringing Olawusi to justice.