The Edo State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the gruesome murder of a seven-year-old boy, Evans Okojabhole, in Irrua, Edo Central.
According to a statement from the state Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, the suspects—45-year-old Pastor Ijebor Simon and 23-year-old Destiny Okojabhole—were taken into custody following an investigation into the child’s death.
The incident was reported by the boy’s father, John Okhojibole, who resides on Jehovah Witness Road, off Elebesunu Street in Irrua. He had raised the alarm after his son was declared missing, only for the child’s mutilated body to be discovered 24 hours later in a nearby bush.
“The remains of seven-year-old Evans Okojabhole were found with his stomach ripped open, feet severed from the ankle, and several fingers cut off. His body was dumped in the bush close to their house,” Yamu stated.
Following preliminary investigations, police operatives from Irrua Divisional Headquarters arrested the two suspects and transferred them to the State Criminal Investigations Department in Benin City for further interrogation.
In a separate development, the police have also arrested three suspects linked to the killing of a vigilante commander, Victor Ogedengbe, in Owan East Local Government Area.
The incident was reported on February 25, 2025, by the chairman of Owan East LGA. Ogedengbe, aged 50, was allegedly attacked and killed on his farm in Erah Camp.
“Immediate investigations by operatives of the Afuze Division led to the arrest of three suspects: Ibrahim Agboje, also known as King, Yakubu Abudulkareem, and Kareem Audu—all residents of Erah Community,” Yamu disclosed.
He further noted that the suspects had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigations Department for further inquiries.
In light of recent violent incidents, the police command has intensified security measures in Uzanu and surrounding areas, particularly after two farmers were killed in Okpekpe Community by suspected herdsmen.
“The command has reviewed its security deployment in Uzanu and other areas affected by these tragic incidents. We remain committed to ensuring the safety of residents and bringing the perpetrators to justice,” Yamu assured.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Enekpen Otimenyin, urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
“We appreciate the support from members of the public and appeal to everyone to report any suspicious activities. If you see something, say something,” she emphasized.
