Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspected kidnappers in connection with the abduction of a medical doctor and the murder of his brother in a violent crime that has shocked the state.
The arrests follow an intensive investigation into the kidnapping incident that left one victim dead and sent ripples of fear through the medical community and residents of the area.
According to police sources, the suspects were apprehended after a coordinated operation by anti-kidnapping units tracking the criminal gang responsible for the brazen attack. The doctor was targeted at an undisclosed location, with his brother tragically killed during the kidnapping operation.
Edo State Police Commissioner confirmed the arrests during a briefing, stating that the suspects are currently in custody and providing useful information that could lead to the arrest of additional gang members.
“We have made significant progress in this case with the arrest of three key suspects,” the police spokesperson said. “Our men are working round the clock to ensure that all those involved in this heinous crime face the full wrath of the law.”
Details of the kidnapping indicate that the assailants ambushed the doctor and his brother, killing the latter either during the abduction or shortly afterward. The doctor’s current condition and whether ransom was paid before his release have not been officially disclosed by authorities.
The incident has reignited concerns about the rising wave of kidnappings targeting professionals, particularly medical practitioners, across Edo State and neighboring areas. Medical associations have repeatedly called for enhanced security measures to protect healthcare workers who are increasingly becoming targets for criminal gangs.
Colleagues of the slain victim have expressed grief and outrage over the murder, describing him as an innocent person who fell victim to the senseless violence plaguing parts of the state.
The Edo State Government has condemned the kidnapping and killing, promising to work with security agencies to bring all perpetrators to justice and implement stronger measures to combat the kidnapping menace.
Security analysts note that kidnapping for ransom has become a lucrative criminal enterprise in several Nigerian states, with gangs specifically targeting individuals perceived as wealthy or able to pay substantial ransoms, including doctors, business people, and their family members.
The three suspects will be arraigned in court once investigations are concluded. Police have urged residents with information about kidnapping gangs operating in the state to come forward and assist law enforcement efforts.
The police command also assured Edo residents of its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring safety across the state through intensified patrols and intelligence-driven operations.
