By In a series of operations across Osun and Abia states, Nigerian police have made significant arrests related to various serious crimes, demonstrating the authorities’ commitment to combating criminal activities. The arrests, which took place in July 2024, include suspects involved in murder, kidnapping, and child trafficking cases.
In Osun State, police spokesperson Yemisi Opalola reported the arrest of Ganiyu Kehinde, a herbalist based in Oba-Oke, for the murder of his friend, Emmanuel Collins. The case came to light when it was reported to the Oke-Odo Division in Osogbo that Collins, a 35-year-old Ghanaian, had been killed by an unknown person.
Through intelligence-led investigation, police detectives apprehended Kehinde, who confessed to the crime. According to Opalola, the suspect admitted to killing Collins on July 9, 2024, and using parts of the deceased’s body in an attempt to create a ritual soap believed to bring wealth.
Kehinde, when questioned by journalists, claimed that he was influenced by external forces to commit the act. He also admitted to having prepared similar items for others in the past. The police stated that the investigation is ongoing and the suspect will be charged to court upon its conclusion.
In a separate incident in Osun State, 22-year-old Effiong Saviour was arrested for allegedly attacking and robbing a woman in Ipetumodu. The suspect is accused of using a machete in the assault and stealing personal belongings from the victim.
Meanwhile, in Abia State, the police command confirmed the arrest of 162 suspects for various crimes including kidnapping and child trafficking. Police Public Relations Officer Maureen Chinaka provided details during a press briefing at the command headquarters in Umuahia.
Among the notable cases in Abia was the arrest of Josephine Martins, 56, for alleged involvement in child trafficking. The case came to light when a complainant reported concerns about her niece’s missing baby. Investigations led to the arrest of Martins and two other suspects.
In another significant operation, five men were apprehended for the alleged kidnapping of a woman in the Ariaria area of Aba. The victim was reportedly robbed and assaulted before being released after a ransom payment. The Rapid Response Squad traced the suspects to their hideout in Umungbede village, where another victim was rescued.
Additionally, Christian Ezekiel, 25, was arrested for allegedly attempting to traffic three young women to Libya via Kano State without parental consent. The SWAT team intercepted this operation at Milverton Park in Aba.
Chinaka highlighted other achievements of the Abia State Police Command, including the rescue of six children and four adults from kidnappers, and the recovery of various weapons, vehicles, and suspected illegal substances.
punchng.com
