The Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspected members of a kidnapping syndicate and recovered the remains of one of their victims in Edo State.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem. She explained that the arrests followed sustained investigations into the abduction of two residents of Utese Village, near Udo Community in Ovia South-West Local Government Area.
According to the statement, Edafe Oghenekome, 42, and Favour Ighasa were abducted from their home on February 4, 2026. The case was officially reported to the police on February 11, shortly after Ighasa regained her freedom on February 9.
“The report indicated that on February 4, 2026, two persons were kidnapped from their residence at Utese Village.
“However, one of the victims, Favour Ighasa, regained her freedom on February 9, 2026, while the abductors ceased communication regarding the release of Edafe Oghenekome”, the statement read.
Ikoedem stated that, acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, that all kidnapping cases must be pursued to a logical conclusion, the command intensified investigative and operational measures.
The operation led to the arrest of Abdulsalam Mohammadu, 21, who allegedly identified other members of the group, including Kehinde Adetunji, 45, described as the syndicate’s informant and a resident of the community, and Nasiru Yau, 24, accused of supplying food to the gang at their forest hideout.
Police said the suspects confessed to involvement in the abduction, ransom collection and the killing of Oghenekome.
Further investigation resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles bearing serial numbers 1686 and 2357, along with three Dane guns. Search efforts also led to the discovery of the victim’s remains in the Igueladidi forest in Iguobazuwa, where he was reportedly abandoned.
The command stated that efforts are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.
“The Edo State Police Command assures the public that all persons connected to this heinous crime will be brought to justice.
“Residents are urged to remain vigilant and continue to support security agencies with credible and timely information,” the statement added.
