OPERATIVES of the Edo State Police Command have apprehended a suspected kidnapper and armed robber as part of ongoing efforts to combat crime in the state.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Nemi Iwo, revealed this yesterday during the parade of the suspects in Benin City, the state capital.
One of the arrested individuals is an alleged member of a gang that, on May 7, 2024, reportedly stormed the residence of Promise Ehichoya at Illela quarters in Ekpoma, abducted him, and demanded a ransom of N6,000,000 before releasing him.
“At around 1 a.m. on May 7, 2024, a masked gang of armed robbers and kidnappers broke into the home of Promise Ehichoya at Illela quarters in Ekpoma, tied him up, and transported him to an unknown location, collecting a ransom of N6,000,000 before releasing him,” the CP stated.
“The suspects also fled with the victim’s vehicle and other valuables, including phones, electronics, jewelry, and clothing. However, the victim’s Toyota Venza, bearing registration number LND 438 HM, was later abandoned and recovered by the police.
“Based on technologically-driven intelligence, operatives from the State Intelligence Department (SID) tracked and arrested 40-year-old Richard John Abdullahi at the Zone C area of Apo Resettlement Quarters, Abuja. A Beretta pistol with three live rounds of ammunition was found in a bag he was carrying. A search of his home led to the recovery of the gold chain and bracelet stolen during the kidnapping in Ekpoma.”
The CP also called on the public to assist the Command by providing information that could lead to the identification and arrest of criminals.
He reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to reducing incidents of kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities in the state.
