The Edo State Police Command has arrested three suspects linked to the alleged killing of a young man and the subsequent burning of four houses in Ogute-Ke, a community in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area, on Friday, June 12, 2026. The incident, which occurred in the aftermath of the community’s Olimi Festival, has sparked concern over rising violence in the region. ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, confirmed the arrests and clarified that four houses were set ablaze, contradicting earlier reports that claimed seven were destroyed. The statement was made during a press briefing in Benin City on Monday, June 15, 2026.
According to an anonymous source close to the investigation, the violence stemmed from a personal dispute over a girlfriend. The conflict erupted during a party held to celebrate the burial of a prominent chief in the area. One of the young men became enraged when he saw another man dancing with the woman he had brought to the event. In a fit of anger, he allegedly attacked the other man with a cutlass, inflicting a fatal wound to the neck. The victim was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries.
Upon learning of the death, youths from the victim’s community mobilized quickly. Armed with dangerous weapons, they stormed the suspect’s residence, only to find it deserted. The suspects had already fled the scene. In retaliation, the angry mob set fire to four houses in the area before dispersing. The source noted that several other individuals also fled the community to avoid being implicated in the violence.
The police have intensified efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects and restore calm in the area. ASP Ikoedem emphasized that the Command is committed to ensuring justice for the victim and preventing further escalation. He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. The incident has raised alarm over the potential for such disputes to spiral into wider communal violence, especially during festive periods.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to verify the identities of those involved and gather more evidence. The Edo State Police Command has assured the public that all necessary measures are being taken to bring the perpetrators to justice. The case underscores the need for stronger community conflict resolution mechanisms and increased police presence in volatile areas. The incident serves as a stark reminder of how personal grievances can quickly turn deadly without timely intervention.
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