The Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspects, Frank Abolo (37), Samson Odewole (22), and Happy Ohiowere (25), in connection with the killing of two artisans mistakenly identified as armed robbers in Benin City.
Police spokesperson, SP Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident on Monday, November 25, 2024. He stated that the suspects have been charged with murder, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two others still at large.
“The command is aware of the incident where two young boys met their unfortunate end. An investigation was immediately launched, resulting in the arrest of three suspects, who have since been charged,” Yamu said.
The tragic event occurred earlier this month in Amagba Community, Oredo Local Government Area. The victims, Osamudiamen Ehigie and Nosa Aghimie, were welders returning from a project site around 6 p.m. when they were pursued by gunmen fleeing after a robbery in the area.
In their attempt to escape, the artisans sought refuge in a nearby house. However, residents, mistaking them for the robbers, apprehended and fatally beat them.
A police investigation later cleared Ehigie and Aghimie of any involvement in the robbery. The owner of the project site where the victims had worked also testified to their innocence.
The police have since arrested three individuals directly linked to the lynching, while the search for the remaining suspects continues.