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Edo State Security Corps Apprehends Suspect in Child Abduction Case
In a swift response to a distress call, officers from the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) successfully detained a 21-year-old man accused of abducting a four-year-old child within the state.
Details of the Incident and Arrest
Richard Balogun, Deputy Corps Commander for Operations at ESSC, revealed to reporters in Benin City on Thursday, January 8, 2025, that the suspect, named ThankGod Destiny, was apprehended after a commercial bus driver and a female passenger raised an alarm.
The abduction occurred on January 4, 2026, in the Ikpoba Hill area of Ikpoba Okhai Local Government Area. According to Balogun, a woman had taken her son out when the child suddenly vanished from her sight. The suspect allegedly kidnapped the boy during this time.
How the Kidnapping Was Foiled
ThankGod Destiny reportedly placed the child on a commercial bus heading toward Kings Square in Benin City. The bus driver quickly noticed the lack of resemblance between the man and the boy, prompting suspicion.
When questioned, the suspect initially claimed he was taking the child to a hospital due to illness. However, a female passenger later asked about their destination, to which he responded that he intended to buy shoes for the boy. These conflicting statements led the driver and passenger to alert nearby ESSC officers patrolling the area.
The security personnel promptly intervened, arresting the suspect and safely rescuing the child without any harm.
Aftermath and Legal Proceedings
The rescued boy has since been reunited with his family, bringing relief to the community. The suspect was transferred to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and legal action.
Context and Broader Implications
Child abduction remains a critical concern in Nigeria, with recent statistics from the National Bureau of Statistics indicating a rise in reported cases by 12% in the past year alone. This incident underscores the importance of vigilant community members and effective law enforcement collaboration in preventing such crimes.
Similar cases in neighboring states have prompted calls for enhanced public awareness campaigns and improved security measures, including the deployment of surveillance technologies in high-risk areas.
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Community Role in Crime Prevention
This case highlights the critical role that everyday citizens play in safeguarding vulnerable individuals. The vigilance of the bus driver and passenger was instrumental in thwarting the abduction, demonstrating how public awareness and prompt action can aid law enforcement efforts.
Experts recommend that communities remain alert and report suspicious activities immediately to authorities to help reduce the incidence of child abductions and related crimes.
