Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested a suspected kidnapper, and armed robber in various efforts to tackle criminal activities in the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Edo State, Nemi Iwo, disclosed this on Friday while parading the suspects in Benin City, the Edo State capital.
Among the suspects arrested is an alleged member of a gang who on 7th May 2024 reportedly invaded the home of one Promise Ehichoya at Illela quarters in Ekpoma, tied him up, took him to an unknown destination, and collected a ransom of N6,000,000 before releasing him.
“On 7th May 2024 at about 1 am, a masked gang of armed robbers/kidnappers invaded the home of one Promise Ehichoya at Illela quarters in Ekpoma, tied him up, took him to an unknown destination, and collected a ransom of #6,000,000 before releasing him,” the CP said.
“The suspects made away with the victim’s vehicle and other household items including phones of various make, electronics, jewellery, and clothing from the house. However, his truck, a Toyota Venza with Reg No LND 438 HM was later abandoned and recovered to the station.
“Acting on technologically driven intelligence, operatives of the State Intelligence Department SID, trailed and arrested one Richard John Abdullahi 40yrs at the Zone C area of Apo resettlement quarters, Abuja. A Beretta pistol with three (3) live ammunition was recovered from a bag in his possession. Further search in his home led to the recovery of the gold chain and bracelet earlier stolen during the kidnap incident in Ekpoma.”
The CP also urged state residents to support the Command by providing information that could help identify and apprehend suspected criminals.
He assured that the Command remains committed to ensuring that the spate of kidnappings, armed robbery, and other criminal activities is brought to the minimum in the State.