Edo, Nigeria – Three operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have been brutally murdered by gunmen suspected to be cultists in Benin City.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that the incident occurred on Wire Road, where the victims, identified as Eghosa Onaiwu, Lucky, and Charles, were killed while unarmed.
A fourth individual, who sustained injuries from the gunfire, is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Benin City.
The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident and announced the arrest of one suspect, identified as Bello Salami, aged 33.
Police spokesperson Moses Yamu stated that Salami was apprehended at the Benin Airport while attempting to evade arrest.
He added that investigations are ongoing to track down other fleeing members of the gang, while the arrested suspect will face prosecution in court.
Eyewitnesses said the victims were relaxing at a residence on Wire Road when the gunmen, driving a Lexus SUV, stormed the location and opened fire in a commando-style attack.
The assailants reportedly fired indiscriminately, killing the three security corps members on the spot and injuring a nearby bystander with stray bullets.
The attack triggered panic in the neighbourhood as residents ran for safety.
A source, who requested anonymity, described the scene as terrifying and said it appeared to be a premeditated hit.
Shortly after the incident, police received intelligence that one of the suspected killers was attempting to flee via the Benin Airport.
He was swiftly arrested by operatives from the airport police division before he could escape.
This latest incident has raised renewed concerns about cult-related violence in Edo State and the risks faced by local security personnel who often operate with limited resources.
Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend all those involved and bring them to justice.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to security agencies.
👇👇👇
Follow DDM Whatsapp channel