Cousin's Betrayal: Teenager Kills 12-Year-Old Relative in Edo Community
The Edo State Police Command has launched a comprehensive investigation into the shocking murder of a 12-year-old boy by his own cousin in what appears to be a ritual killing. The victim, identified as Emiliano Egwunbare, was kidnapped and killed by his 18-year-old cousin, Tega Emajuwa, in a case that has sent shockwaves through the Obagie Community.
The Tragic Kidnapping and Murder
According to police reports, the horrific incident occurred on September 16, 2025, in the Egor local government area of Edo State. Emajuwa, who had been living with the parents of his young cousin for several months, betrayed their trust in the most brutal manner possible. The 18-year-old, along with two accomplices, Edugie Destiny (20) and Osayande Vincent (23), kidnapped young Emiliano from his own home.
In a particularly cruel twist, the suspects demanded and collected ransom money from the grieving parents but failed to release the boy as promised. This heartless act prompted the family to involve the police, who immediately launched an intensive investigation into the disappearance.
Police Investigation and Arrests
Through what police described as "sustained tactical and technical intelligence," operatives were able to track down and arrest Tega Emajuwa. After being in custody for approximately one week, the prime suspect confessed to the crime and implicated his two accomplices. The police subsequently arrested Edugie Destiny and Osayande Vincent, bringing all three suspects into custody.
The suspects' confessions led investigators to a grim discovery - the body of young Emiliano had been dumped inside a well in Obagie Community. Police immediately recovered the remains and deposited them at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) mortuary for autopsy and proper documentation.
Police Clarification and Court Proceedings
Deputy Edo Police spokeswoman ASP Eno Ikoedem addressed public concerns about the case, specifically denying allegations that the suspects had been released from police custody. The police official confirmed that the case was initially reported at the Ogida Police Division before being transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Unit in Benin for more discreet investigation.
"The Edo State Police Command wishes to categorically state that this claim is false, misleading, and unfounded," Ikoedem stated, referring to social media rumors about the suspects' release. "The suspects remained in lawful custody until they were charged to court on October 16, 2025, where the case is currently proceeding, while they have all been remanded for prosecution."
The police spokesperson also noted that the mother of the deceased was present in court during the proceedings, contradicting claims made in a viral social media video. The case continues to develop as the judicial process moves forward, with the three suspects facing serious charges related to kidnapping and murder.
