The Edo State Police Command has arrested five suspects in connection with two separate murder cases in the state.

According to a statement released on Wednesday, February 25, by the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Moses Yamu, the suspects are linked to the killing of a 7-year-old boy and the assassination of a local vigilante commander.

One of the victims, 7-year-old Evans Okojabhole, was reported missing on February 21 by his father, John Okojabhole, a resident of Jehovah Witness Road in Irrua. Sadly, the boy’s body was found the next day with severe injuries—his stomach was cut open, his ankles severed, and some fingers missing.

”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.”

In another case, the police are investigating the murder of Victor Ogedengbe, a 50-year-old vigilante commander of Erah Camp in Owan East Local Government Area. He was reportedly killed under unclear circumstances.

”Ogedengbe was reportedly attacked and killed on his farm on Feb. 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.

The police have assured the public that investigations are ongoing to bring those responsible to justice.