Benin City – The Edo State Police Command says it is investigating claims made by a suspected kidnapper who allegedly told investigators that the firearms used in the abduction of a woman in Benin City were obtained from a community security official.
The suspect, identified by police as 32-year-old Marvelous Isaac, was arrested in connection with the June 14 kidnapping of a woman at the Vegetable Market in Benin City.
According to the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, operatives of the Intelligence Response Team arrested the suspect following intelligence gathered during investigations into the incident.
Police said items recovered during the operation include an RX 350 Lexus SUV allegedly used by the suspects, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and N2.25 million, which investigators suspect may be linked to the alleged crime.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly told investigators that the victim’s family paid an N8 million ransom before her release and claimed that he received N1.5 million as his share. These claims have not been independently verified by the police or a court.
The suspect also allegedly claimed that another member of the group, identified as Precious, arranged for the firearms used in the operation through a man identified only as “Liberty,” whom the suspect described as the Chief Security Officer of Oredo Community.
According to the suspect’s statement, the firearms were allegedly obtained for a fee. He further alleged that the individual possessed several firearms and rented them to others. These allegations remain the suspect’s account and have not been substantiated by the police or tested in court.
Police said investigations are ongoing to verify all aspects of the suspect’s statement and identify any other persons who may be connected to the alleged kidnapping.
Investigators also disclosed that another suspected gang member, identified as Precious, was killed during an exchange of gunfire with security operatives in the course of the investigation.
Police alleged that four suspects were involved in the abduction, which reportedly occurred in broad daylight at the Vegetable Market. According to investigators, the suspects intercepted a vehicle, during which a male occupant escaped, while a female passenger was allegedly abducted and later released after a ransom was paid.
Reacting to the development, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo commended the police and other security agencies for their efforts in investigating the case and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling kidnapping and other violent crimes across the state.
The police said investigations are continuing, while all allegations made by the suspect remain subject to further investigation and judicial determination.
