Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested a suspected kidnapper, Muhammed Abubakar, following a failed abduction attempt in a community near Ologbo in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.
The suspect, said to be from Kwara State, was apprehended after he and his accomplices allegedly attempted to kidnap occupants of a residential building in the early hours of the day.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed that the arrest was made after residents raised an alarm during the attack, prompting a swift response from security operatives.
According to Ikoedem, the suspects, who were heavily armed, reportedly stormed the house at about 6:00 a.m., firing sporadically to scare residents while attempting to force open the building’s iron door.
However, their operation was disrupted when some members of the community alerted the police, who immediately mobilised to the scene.
“On sighting the police, the suspected kidnappers fled into the bush. Muhammed Abubakar was arrested during a combing operation, while others escaped,” she said.
READ ALSO: Man arrested in Edo state for allegedly defiling stepdaughter, 13-year-old friend
The police spokesperson added that the suspect has since been transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping and Cybercrime Unit of the Command for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Monday Agbonika, has directed all Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders to heighten surveillance and remain proactive in tackling criminal activities across the state.
During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to involvement in the crime, stating that although he is a herder from Kwara State, he had travelled to Edo State with the intention of carrying out kidnapping operations.
The police assured residents of continued efforts to track down the fleeing suspects and strengthen security in affected communities.