LAGOS MARCH 8TH (NEWSRNGERS)-A 45-year-old hunter, Kehinde Adetunji, has been arrested for allegedly orchestrating the kidnapping and murder of his friend, Edafe Oghenekome, in Utese Village, Ovia Southwest Local Government Area of Edo State.
PUNCH Metro gathered that Adetunji colluded with gunmen to abduct Oghenekome, who had recently sold pineapples from his farm worth millions of naira. A ransom of N45m was reportedly paid for him and his sister, but only the sister was released on February 9. Oghenekome was later killed in the bush after allegedly witnessing Adetunji share part of the ransom for himself.
A source familiar with the case said, “Oghenekome and Adetunji were friends. The deceased had recently sold pineapples worth millions. Adetunji, a hunter, organised the kidnapping of his friend, who was abducted along with his sister on February 4. Only the sister was released after the ransom was paid.”
The Edo State Police confirmed the arrest of Adetunji and two accomplices, Abdulsalam Mohammadu, 21, and Nasiru Yau, 24, following a diligent investigation by the command.
The Police Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, stated that Abdulsalam Mohammadu’s cooperation led officers to the other suspects and the location where Oghenekome’s body was abandoned.
She stated, “The sustained investigative and operational efforts led to the arrest of Abdulsalam Mohammadu, who disclosed the involvement of additional gang members, including Kehinde Adetunji, aged 45, the syndicate’s local pointer, and Nasiru Yau, 24, who provided food for the gang in the bush.
“All suspects have confessed to their involvement in the kidnapping, ransom collection, and the murder of Edafe Oghenekome. Further investigation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and three Dane guns, as well as the remains of Edafe in Igueladidi forest, Iguobazuwa, where he was left to decompose.”
The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in Edo State’s ongoing efforts to curb kidnapping and ransom-related crimes.
Punch
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