Delta Police Apprehend Suspect in Heinous Murder of 80-Year-Old Man
The Delta State Police Command has made a significant breakthrough in a chilling murder case, arresting a 32-year-old suspect, Alex Kehinde, in connection with the alleged killing of an 80-year-old man in the Asaba–Ogwashi area of Aniocha South Local Government. Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, confirmed the incident to The Guardian, revealing that the crime occurred on February 3, 2026, but the prime suspect was only recently captured in Lagos State after what Edafe described as a "technically driven investigation."
Details of the Tragic Incident
According to Edafe, the elderly victim was discovered lifeless in his residence, having been suffocated by Kehinde and an accomplice identified simply as "Egbon," who remains at large. Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased had planned to renovate his apartment for rental purposes and had contracted the suspect and his accomplice for the work, paying them N200,000. Instead of fulfilling their agreement, the suspects allegedly conspired to kidnap the victim.
Edafe explained that the assailants took the elderly man upstairs in his home, where they attacked him and covered his mouth with a mobile phone to prevent him from raising an alarm. Tragically, the victim suffocated during the assault and died at the scene. Rather than seeking medical assistance, the suspects abandoned the body and proceeded to steal his motorcycle and mobile phone. The stolen phone was later sold at Ogbeogonogo Market in Asaba for N30,000.
Ransom Extortion and Ongoing Manhunt
In a further disturbing twist, the suspects reportedly removed the victim's SIM card and used it to contact his son, falsely claiming that the man had been kidnapped. They subsequently demanded a ransom of N2 million, which the family paid. Police revealed that the suspects shared the ransom equally, each taking N1 million. Edafe used this opportunity to caution the public to exercise vigilance, particularly when dealing with unfamiliar persons, and to avoid isolated engagements that could expose them to danger.
Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspect, Egbon, and bring him to justice. In his confession, Kehinde admitted to participating in the crime and disclosed that his accomplice, now on the run, suggested that the victim be killed. This case highlights the severe consequences of criminal exploitation and the importance of community awareness in preventing such tragedies.
