The Edo State Police Command has arrested five suspects in connection with two gruesome murders, including the killing of a seven-year-old boy in Irrua and the murder of a vigilante commander in Owan East Local Government Area.

Two Arrested for the Murder of 7-Year-Old Evans Okojabhole

According to a statement by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, police operatives arrested Pastor Ijebor Simon (45 years) and Destiny Okojabhole (23 years) over the brutal killing of seven-year-old Evans Okojabhole.

The case was reported by the victim’s father, John Okhojibole, who lives on Jehovah Witness Road, off Elebesunu Street, Irrua, Edo Central.

Gruesome Discovery

Evans was reported missing 24 hours before his mutilated body was found in a nearby bush. His stomach was ripped open, his feet severed from the ankle, and some fingers cut off.

“The Command received a case of murder reported by one John Okhojibole on February 22, 2025, at about 13:45 hours. The remains of his seven-year-old son were discovered with severe bodily mutilations near their home,” the statement read.

The two suspects were arrested by operatives of the Irrua Divisional Headquarters and have since been transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) in Benin City for further investigation.

Three Arrested Over Vigilante Commander’s Murder in Owan East

In a separate incident, the police arrested three suspects linked to the murder of Vigilante Commander, Victor Ogedengbe (50 years), in Erah Camp, Owan East Local Government Area.

How the Murder Happened

On February 25, 2025, at about 07:30 hrs, the Chairman of Owan East LGA reported to the Afuze Police Division that Ogedengbe was attacked and killed on his farm by suspected herdsmen. His body was later deposited at the hospital.

Swift Police Action Leads to Arrests

Following an immediate police investigation, officers apprehended three suspects from Erah Community:

• Ibrahim Agboje (King)
• Yakubu Abudulkareem
• Kareem Audu

All three have been transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) in Benin City for further interrogation.

Security Reinforcement in Okpekpe After Killings by Suspected Herdsmen

The Edo State Police Command has reviewed security measures in Uzanu and surrounding areas following the murder of two farmers by suspected herdsmen in Okpekpe Community.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Otimenyin, has deployed additional security forces to the area to prevent further attacks and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“The Command remains dedicated to ensuring a safer Edo State. We appreciate the support of the public and encourage everyone to report any suspicious activities. If you see something, say something,” the statement concluded.

Conclusion

With multiple arrests made and security reinforcements underway, the Edo State Police Command is intensifying efforts to combat violent crime and ensure justice for victims of gruesome killings. The public is urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to maintain peace and security across the state.