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The Edo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of the June 14 kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City, arresting four suspected members of the criminal gang and killing one during a gun battle. Police said the operation, carried out by the Intelligence Response Team following credible intelligence, led to the arrest of key suspect Marvelous Isaac, while another suspect identified as Precious was neutralised during an exchange of gunfire.
According to the command, further operations conducted in Benin City and parts of Delta State resulted in the arrest of three additional suspects, including a 27-year-old woman, Gift Raphael, who allegedly helped investigators track down other members of the syndicate. Security operatives recovered a Lexus RX 350 SUV reportedly used in the kidnapping operation, a pump-action shotgun, live cartridges, a motorcycle and over ₦2 million in cash.
Police said all the suspects have made confessional statements linking them to the market abduction and other criminal activities within Edo State. The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, commended the operatives for their swift response and professionalism, assuring residents that efforts would continue until all members of the kidnapping network are brought to justice. The victim was abducted while shopping with her husband and children at the popular market, an incident that sparked public outrage and renewed concerns over insecurity in the state.
