The Edo State Police Command has dismantled a kidnap syndicate, recovering the decomposing body of 42-year-old Edafe Oghenekome from a forest, the command confirmed on March 3, 2026. Two AK-47 rifles were also seized during the operation.
According to the state police spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, Oghenekome, a pineapple farmer, and another victim, Favor Ighasa, were abducted from their residence in Ovia South-West Local Government Area on February 4, 2026. The kidnappers demanded a N50 million ransom. Ighasa was released on February 9 following a ransom payment, but the abductors ceased communication regarding Oghenekome’s release.
Police investigations led to the arrest of 21-year-old Abdulsalam Mohammadu, who revealed the involvement of other syndicate members, including Kehinde Adetunji, 45, the group’s local informant, and Nasiru Yau, 24, responsible for supplying food to the gang in the bush.
“All suspects have been arrested and have confessed to their roles in the kidnapping, ransom collection, and murder of Edafe Oghenekome,” the command stated. Further searches led to the recovery of the victim’s remains in Igueladidi Forest, Iguobazuwa, where he had been left to decompose.
In addition to the AK-47 rifles, three Dane guns were recovered. The police are continuing efforts to apprehend other members of the syndicate who remain at large.
The Edo State Police Command urged residents to stay vigilant and provide timely, credible information to assist security agencies, assuring that all individuals involved in the crime will be brought to justice.
