Edo State Police Arrest Four Suspects in Kidnapping and Murder Case
Operatives from the Edo State Police Command have arrested four individuals linked to the alleged kidnapping and murder of a pineapple farmer, Edafe Oghenekome, in Edo State. The suspects, identified as Abdulsalam Mohammadu (21), Nasiru Yau (24), Gambo Lawal, and Kehinde Adetunji (45), are accused of abducting the victim along with his sister, Favour Ighasa, from their home in Utese Village, located in the Ovia South-West Local Government Area.
According to reports, the incident began when the victims were taken from their residence. The suspects reportedly initiated ransom negotiations and collected N2 million before releasing Favour on February 9, 2026. However, Edafe Oghenekome was allegedly killed after he recognized one of his captors as the local hunter who had been involved in the abduction.
The mastermind behind the crime is believed to be Kehinde Adetunji, a local hunter and close associate of the deceased. It is said that Adetunji orchestrated the kidnapping after the victim sold a truckload of pineapples for approximately N2 million. This act reportedly triggered the chain of events that led to the tragic outcome.
Details of the Crime and Investigation
The police spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the incident and stated that the suspects were arrested following a sustained investigation. According to her, the victims were abducted on February 4, 2026. While Favour was released five days later, the abductors stopped all communication regarding Edafe’s release.
During the course of the investigation, Abdulsalam Mohammadu was arrested and implicated Kehinde Adetunji as the syndicate’s local “pointer” and Nasiru Yau as the individual responsible for delivering food to the kidnappers in the bush. The suspects have since confessed to their involvement in the kidnapping, ransom collection, and the murder of Oghenekome.
The hunter, Kehinde Adetunji, led the police to the location in the bush where the deceased was buried, according to the command. In addition to the arrests, two AK-47 rifles and three Dane guns were recovered from the suspects.
Ongoing Efforts to Bring All Perpetrators to Justice
The Edo State Police Command has intensified its efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large. The police have emphasized their commitment to ensuring that all those involved in the crime face legal consequences.
This case highlights the growing concerns over kidnapping and violent crimes in the region, prompting calls for increased security measures and community vigilance. The police have urged residents to report any suspicious activities to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
