Edo Police Arrest Ex-Convict For Kidnapping And Armed Robbery

Richard John Abdullahi, an ex-convict who committed kidnapping and armed robbery, has been taken into custody by the Edo State Police Command.

The suspect and his gang members broke into Promise Ehichoya’s home in Ekpoma, kidnapped him, and demanded a ransom of N6,000,000 before releasing him, according to a statement made public by the command’s spokesperson, SP Moses Joel Yamu, on Friday, September 27, 2024.

Along with the victim’s car, the suspects fled with other household goods such jewelry, gadgets, phones of different brands, and clothes.

The State Intelligence Department SID apprehended Abdullahi in the Zone C area of Apo resettlement quarters in Abuja.

Abdullahi identified other members of the gang, including Lucky, whom he met while serving a jail term at Koton-Karfe Prison in Kogi State.

“On 7th May, 2024 at about 1am, a masked gang of armed robbers/kidnappers invaded the home of one Promise Ehichoya at Illela quarters in Ekpoma, tied him up, took him to an unknown destination and collected a ransom of #6,000,000 before releasing him,” the statement read.

“The suspects made away with the victim’s vehicle and other household items including phones of various make, electronics, jewelries and clothing from the house. However, his vehicle, a Toyota Venza with Reg No LND 438 HM was later abandoned and recovered to the station.

“Acting on technologically driven intelligence, operatives of the State Intelligence Department SID, trailed and arrested one Richard John Abdullahi 40yrs at the Zone C area of Apo resettlement quarters, Abuja.

“A beretta pistol with three (3) live ammunitions was recovered from a bag in his possession. Further search in his home led to the recovery of the gold chain and bracelet earlier stolen during the kidnap incident in Ekpoma.

“The arrested suspect mentioned other members of the gang now at large as Ishmael Peter (Gang Leader), Emmanuel Audu and one Lucky whom he met while serving jail term at the Koton-Karfe Prison, Kogi State.

“He led the operatives to the homes of Emmanuel Audu and Ishmael Peter where some electronics and clothing earlier stolen from the victim were recovered, but the suspects were unfortunately nowhere to be found.

“An unregistered gold colored Toyota Sienna and two motorcycles used for their operations were also recovered.

“Concerted efforts have been put in place to ensure the fleeing suspects are brought to book.”

A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.

Nnamdi Okoli