Police nab ex-convict for kidnapping, armed robbery in Edo

A 40-year-old ex-convict, Richard John, has been arrested for alleged kidnapping and armed robbery in Edo State.

The suspect, along with others arrested for various crimes, including robbery, theft, and kidnapping, was paraded by the State Police Commissioner, Nemi Edwin-Iwo.

The other gang members, currently at large, are Ishmael Peter (gang leader), Emmanuel Audu, and one simply identified as Lucky.

They reportedly served jail terms together at Koton-Karfe Prison, Kogi State.

It is alleged that they invaded the home of one Promise Ehichoya on May 7, at approximately 2:00 a.m., in Illela Quarters, Ekpoma. They tied him up, took him to an unknown location, and demanded a ransom of N6 million before releasing him.

They also made off with the victim’s vehicle and other household items, including phones of various makes, electronics, jewellery, and clothing. A car, a Toyota Venza with registration number LND 438 HM, was later abandoned but recovered by police operatives.

Confirming the development, the spokesperson for the command, SP Moses Joel Yamu, said: “Acting on technologically-driven intelligence, operatives of the State Criminal Intelligence Department (SCID) trailed and arrested Richard John Abdullahi, 40, in the Zone C area of Apo resettlement quarters, Abuja. A Beretta pistol with three live rounds of ammunition was recovered from a bag in his possession. Further searches of his home led to the recovery of the gold chain and bracelet stolen during the kidnapping incident in Ekpoma.

“He led operatives to the homes of Emmanuel Audu and Ishmael Peter, where some electronics and clothing stolen from the victim were recovered, but the suspects were unfortunately not found. An unregistered gold-coloured Toyota Sienna and two motorcycles used for their operations were also recovered.”

He added that concerted efforts are underway to ensure the fleeing suspects are apprehended and brought to justice.