‘We Rented Our Weapons From a CSO’ — Edo Kidnapper Makes Shocking Confession

A suspected kidnapper arrested by the Edo State Police Command has made a startling confession, alleging that the firearms used by his gang were rented from a community security chief in Benin City.

The suspect, Marvelous Isaac, 32, was arrested in connection with the abduction of a woman at the popular Vegetable Market in Benin City on June 14. During interrogation, he claimed that the gang obtained its weapons through a Chief Security Officer (CSO) of Oredo Community identified as Liberty.

According to Isaac, the firearms were arranged by a deceased gang member known as Precious, who allegedly had direct access to the community security chief.

“It was Precious that went to the CSO because he is the owner of the guns. His name is Liberty,” the suspect reportedly told investigators.

Isaac, an indigene of Akwa Ibom State residing on Ekenwa Road in Benin City, disclosed that the victim was released after her family paid an N8 million ransom. He further claimed that he received N1.5 million as his share of the proceeds from the operation.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, said operatives of the Intelligence Response Team arrested the suspects following credible intelligence gathered during investigations into the kidnapping. He revealed that another gang member, identified as Precious, was killed during a gun duel with security operatives.

ValidViewNetwork reports that Police recovered an RX 350 Lexus SUV allegedly used by the kidnappers, a pump action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and N2.25 million suspected to be proceeds of the crime.

Isaac told investigators that four persons participated in the operation, including himself, Precious, Wisdom, and another suspect allegedly brought in from Delta State. He further claimed that the community security chief possessed several firearms and was known for renting them out.

Investigations showed that the kidnappers struck in broad daylight. The gang reportedly stormed the market area, attacked an SUV parked along the road, shot one of its front tyres, and forcefully dragged the driver out of the vehicle.

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While attempting to abduct both occupants, the male victim managed to escape. The woman also fled briefly but was chased, captured, and forced into the kidnappers’ vehicle before they sped away, ValidViewNetwork reports.

Reacting to the breakthrough, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo commended the police and other security agencies for their swift action and renewed his administration’s commitment to combating kidnapping, cultism, and other violent crimes across the state.

The allegations against the community security chief have introduced a fresh dimension to the case, with investigators expected to intensify efforts to determine the extent of any involvement and ensure that all persons connected to the crime are brought to justice.

ValidViewNetwork reports that as investigations continue, the shocking claims surrounding the alleged source of the gang’s weapons are expected to draw intense public attention. Authorities say no stone will be left unturned in uncovering the truth, while residents await further developments in a case that has raised serious questions about security and accountability in the state.