Authorities in Edo State have taken swift action following the daylight killing of a well-known local resident, arresting three individuals linked to the fatal shooting.
The victim, a middle-aged man identified as Francis and commonly referred to by the nickname “Jogodo,” was gunned down by unidentified assailants on Monday at the Abiodun Motor Park located at the Jattu junction in Auchi, the administrative headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Edo State Command, Assistant Superintendent of Police Eno Ikoedem, stated that the three suspects are now in custody. Speaking during a telephone interview, Ikoedem revealed that the arrests were made in direct response to the incident.
“The command is fully aware of the case and has successfully apprehended three suspects connected to the shooting,” Ikoedem said. The suspects have since been moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department on the orders of the Commissioner of Police. This move aims to thoroughly examine the details of the crime and identify additional members of the suspected criminal network involved.
Ikoedem emphasized that investigators believe the three arrested individuals may not be acting alone. “We have reasons to believe that there are more people involved in this syndicate,” the spokesperson added.
In a decisive security measure, the Abiodun Motor Park — the scene of the tragic shooting — has been closed indefinitely to facilitate ongoing investigations and prevent further incidents.
The killing has sparked concern among residents in the area, with many calling for heightened security around public transport hubs. The Edo State Police Command has assured the public of its commitment to justice and is appealing for credible information that could help bring all perpetrators to book.