Edo Police arrest man over alleged killing of Europe-based friend during house-warming

The Edo State Police Command has arrested a suspect, Amadin William, in connection with the alleged killing of his childhood friend, Eghosa Osarietinomwan, who had returned from Europe to celebrate Christmas in Nigeria.

The arrest was confirmed by the command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, who spoke with journalists on Sunday in Benin.

According to the police, the incident occurred on Dec. 22 in Oben community, Edo State, shortly after the deceased hosted a house-warming ceremony for family members and friends following his return from Europe for the Yuletide.

Ikoedem explained that the suspect allegedly lured Osarietinomwan away from the gathering and into a nearby bush path, where he attacked him with a machete.

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She said the victim suffered severe machete wounds to the neck after stepping out during the celebration.

“He was rushed to the hospital for treatment, where he was confirmed dead,” she said.

The police spokesperson disclosed that the suspect fled the community immediately after the attack but was later apprehended in Benin City on Dec. 27.

“The suspect, after committing the crime, absconded and went into hiding but was tracked and arrested,” she added.

PlatinumPost reports that the killing sparked outrage in the community, prompting some youths to allegedly set the suspect’s house on fire in retaliation.

Ikoedem confirmed that two additional suspects have been arrested in connection with the arson.

She stated that investigations were ongoing and assured that all those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.