The Edo State Police Command has arrested three members of a four-man kidnapping gang that had collected over N75 million in ransom from 11 victims between January and April 2025. The suspects, identified as Asemota Osamede, 38, Michael Tomminiwei, 43, and Kelly Aitoya, 34, were arrested after successfully collecting N7.5 million in ransom from a sawmill operator.
*Details of the Arrest*
According to the police, the suspects kidnapped the victim on April 10, 2025, and collected N1.5 million from her bank account while in captivity. They also collected N6 million in ransom from the victim's family members before releasing her. The police were alerted after the suspects demanded an additional N3 million from the family, threatening to kidnap the victim again or assassinate her if the demand was not met.
*Police Action*
The police swiftly responded to the alert and arrested the three suspects in connection with the kidnapping. The suspects confessed to belonging to a four-man kidnapping syndicate operating with one AK-47 rifle and two pump-action guns in Benin City.
*Charges and Warning*
The investigation has been completed, and the suspects will be charged in court. The Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, restated the command's commitment to the safety of lives and property, warning that there is no safe haven for criminals in the state.
*Conclusion*
The Edo State Police Command's swift action in arresting the suspected kidnappers is a testament to their commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens. The police will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible for heinous crimes are brought to book.
