The police command in Edo on Wednesday said it arrested five suspects in connection with two murders.

This was disclosed in a statement by its spokesman, Moses Yamu.

Mr Yamu said the killings included the murder of a seven-year-old boy and vigilante commander.

He said John Okojabhole, a resident of Jehovah Witness Road, off Elebesunu Street in Irrua, reported the murder of his son, Evans Okojabhole, on February 22.

According to him, the boy, who had been declared missing 24 hours earlier, was later found dead with his stomach ripped open, his ankles and some fingers severed.

”His mutilated body was dumped in a bush near their home. Following preliminary investigations, two suspects were arrested in connection with the crime.

“The police transferred the suspects to the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) in Benin for further investigation,” Mr Yamu stated.

The police said in another incident, the command was investigating the killing of Victor Ogedengbe, 50, the vigilante commander of Erah Camp in Owan East LGA.

”Ogedengbe was reportedly attacked and killed in his farm on February 25 by suspected herdsmen.

”The chairman of Owan East LGA reported the incident at Afuze Police Division, prompting a swift investigation that led to the arrest of three suspects.

”The suspects are all residents of Erah community, and they have also been transferred to the SCID for further interrogation,” he said.

Mr Yamu disclosed that the police had also increased security in the Uzanu and Okpekpe communities following the recent killing of two farmers by suspected herdsmen.

He said police commissioner Betty Otimenyin has reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents in the state.

The commissioner urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement by reporting suspicious activities.

“We appreciate the support from the general public and appeal for continued cooperation. If you see something, say something,” the police chief said. 

(NAN)