Edo State Security Corps arrests suspected kidnapper, rescues four-year-old boy in Benin City, and hands suspect over to police

Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested 21-year-old ThankGod Destiny for allegedly kidnapping a four-year-old boy at Ikpoba Hill in Benin City.

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The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

Deputy Corps Commander, Operations, Richard Balogun, said the incident occurred on 4 January when the boy’s mother briefly lost sight of him.

Destiny reportedly abducted the child by placing him into a commercial bus heading towards Kings Square.

“The driver, who noticed a striking difference in appearance between the boy and the suspect, questioned his intentions,” Balogun said.

“The suspect first claimed the boy was ill and that he was taking him to the hospital. Later, he said he was buying the boy a pair of shoes. The conflicting responses prompted the driver and a female passenger to raise an alarm.”

The alert drew the attention of ESSC officers patrolling nearby. Destiny was immediately apprehended, and the four-year-old boy was rescued unharmed.

The child has since been safely reunited with his family.

Balogun assured residents that the ESSC would continue to monitor the state and actively pursue criminals.

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“The safety of citizens, especially children, is a top priority,” he said.