The Edo State Police Command has arrested 13 suspects in connection with the killing of a 32-year-old resident, Ifeanyi Okoro, whose body was discovered in the Upper Sokponba area of Benin City last week.
The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the arrests in a statement on Thursday, saying the suspects were picked up during coordinated raids following intelligence reports.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the victim was attacked during a cult-related dispute, though police say they are exploring other angles, including robbery. “We are treating it as a homicide case until forensic results confirm otherwise,” the PPRO said.
Eyewitnesses told reporters that Okoro was ambushed while returning home from work. His vehicle was found riddled with bullets, and valuables were missing.
Police said the suspects are currently being profiled at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), while more arrests are expected. The Commissioner of Police, Funsho Adegbite, assured residents that the command is committed to dismantling cult gangs and restoring peace in the area.
