Edo police arrest suspects, recover arms in Vegetable Market kidnap case

Crime Diary

BENIN CITY, Nigeria (NPA) — The Edo State Police Command has recorded a breakthrough in the investigation of the kidnapping incident that occurred at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City, on June 14, leading to the arrest of several suspects and the recovery of arms, cash and other exhibits.

The operation followed directives by Governor Monday Okpebholo for the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the crime.

In a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Moses Yamu, the command said operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), acting on the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, launched a coordinated operation based on credible intelligence.

The operation led to the arrest of Marvelous Isaac, 32, on June 18 during a gun duel with police operatives, while another suspect identified simply as Precious was neutralised.

Items recovered from the suspects included a Lexus RX 350 SUV with registration number EKP 848 AE, allegedly used in the kidnapping operation, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, N2.05 million in cash and a motorcycle.

The police further disclosed that additional members of the suspected kidnapping syndicate were arrested on June 20 during separate operations in Benin City and parts of Delta State.

The suspects were identified as Gift Raphael, 27, Wisdom Michael and Rufus Michael.

According to the command, preliminary investigations and confessional statements linked the suspects to the Vegetable Market kidnapping incident and other criminal activities within Edo State.

Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika commended the operatives for their professionalism, courage and dedication in tracking down members of the criminal network.

He assured residents that the command would sustain its crackdown on criminal elements and ensure all those involved in the crime are brought to justice.

“The Edo State Police Command remains committed to protecting lives and property and will not relent until criminal elements are flushed out of the state,” the commissioner said.

The command also urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to support ongoing efforts to combat crime across the state.