In a decisive breakthrough against violent crime, the Kogi State Police Command has arrested suspects linked to the brutal killing of a fresh graduate of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, while also recovering the victim’s stolen tricycle in a follow-up operation.
The victim, identified as Aminu Abubakar, was a resident of the Otokiti area of Lokoja and had recently completed his studies, eagerly awaiting mobilisation for the National Youth Service Corps. His life was tragically cut short after he left home in search of daily income and never returned, raising alarm among family members and community residents.
According to a statement by the police spokesperson, ASP Saliu Oyiza Afusat, the case was swiftly taken up by operatives of the Homicide Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department. Through what she described as a “well-coordinated, intelligence-led operation,” investigators tracked down key suspects believed to be responsible for both the murder and robbery.
Preliminary findings revealed that the suspects allegedly posed as construction workers to deceive the victim. They reportedly lured him to a secluded area in Lokoja, where they attacked him with a shovel. An autopsy later confirmed that the victim sustained multiple severe blows to the head, leading to fatal injuries. Investigators also determined that the crime was premeditated, with the primary motive being to dispossess him of his tricycle.
Following the attack, the suspects fled with the stolen tricycle, which they later sold to an individual identified as Kabiru Idris in Ayingba. Police operatives tracked and arrested Idris, leading to a significant breakthrough in the case. A search of his residence resulted in the recovery of the victim’s tricycle, along with four other motorcycles suspected to be stolen.
Further investigation revealed that the two main suspects, Garba Godwin Ibrahim and Ashema Usman Samson, are ex-convicts with prior involvement in armed robbery and homicide-related offenses. Their arrest has been described by authorities as a major step in dismantling a criminal network involved in violent crimes and vehicle theft within the region.
The police confirmed that the investigation has been concluded and that the suspects have been formally charged before a magistrate court in Lokoja, where they were remanded in custody pending further legal proceedings.
Kogi State Commissioner of Police, CP Naziru Bello Kankarofi, commended the officers involved in the operation for their professionalism and dedication. He also urged residents to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies by providing timely and credible information that could help prevent further crimes.
The arrest and recovery of the stolen tricycle have brought some relief to the grieving community, even as the tragic loss of the young graduate continues to spark calls for improved security and stronger measures against violent crime in the state.
Police crack case, arrest suspects over Kogi graduate’s brutal murder
