The Edo State Police Command has apprehended two suspects, Pedro Festus and Omorodion Felix, for the abduction and murder of a 22-year-old man, Joseph, after collecting a ransom from his family.
The suspects, identified as members of a notorious gang involved in kidnapping and car theft across Delta and Edo states, attacked Joseph in front of his home in Uwore community. They abducted him at gunpoint and drove him into a bush along the Benin-Akure Road in his vehicle.
According to reports, the suspects initially demanded a ₦10 million ransom. However, Joseph's family managed to raise ₦250,000, which was sent to them as negotiations continued. Despite receiving the payment, the kidnappers killed Joseph, reportedly because he recognized them as neighbors from the same community.
Adding to their crimes, the suspects sold Joseph’s vehicle to an unidentified buyer after the murder.
Investigations revealed a troubling history for one of the suspects, Pedro Festus, who was previously charged with armed robbery under the name Ikoowonsa Owege. He escaped from custody during the #EndSARS protests in 2020, subsequently changing his identity to Pedro Festus to continue a spree of kidnappings and murders in the state.
The Edo State Police confirmed the suspects' confessions to the crime. They remain in custody as authorities work to ensure justice for the victim and his family.