The Edo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of the kidnapping incident that occurred at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City, with four suspects arrested and one alleged gang member killed during a police operation.
The victim was abducted by armed men while shopping at the popular market on June 14, triggering an intensive manhunt by security operatives.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed that operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), acting on the directive of Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, launched a coordinated operation based on credible intelligence.
According to the statement, the operation led to the arrest of Marvelous Isaac, 32, on June 18, during a gun duel with suspected kidnappers. Another suspect identified simply as Precious was killed during the exchange of fire.
Police recovered a Lexus RX 350 SUV allegedly used in the kidnapping operation, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and N2.05 million suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.
Further investigations led to the arrest of three additional suspects on June 20. They include Gift Raphael, 27, whose arrest reportedly led operatives to Wisdom Michael and Rufus Michael during separate operations in Benin City and parts of Delta State.
The command said all four suspects have made confessional statements linking them to the kidnapping incident and other criminal operations within Edo State.
Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika commended the operatives for their professionalism, courage, and swift response in dismantling the criminal network, assuring residents that the command remains committed to tracking down all criminal elements operating within the state.
He also urged members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community collaboration remains critical in the fight against crime.
The police reiterated the need for vigilance and encouraged residents to report suspicious activities through the command’s emergency and complaint response channels.
