Police Arrest Man for Murder of Commercial Motorcyclist in Delta
The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man in connection with the murder of a commercial motorcyclist in Ughelli North Local Government Area of the state.
According to a statement released on Monday by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Bright Edafe, the suspect, identified as Oghenevwede Ogbogbo, was apprehended following a swift intelligence-led operation carried out by detectives from the Ughelli Division.
The Incident
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect had allegedly hired the victim, a commercial motorcyclist popularly known as okada rider, to take him to a remote area on the outskirts of Ekiugbo community. On getting there, he reportedly attacked the rider with a machete, killing him instantly before attempting to flee with the motorcycle.
However, community youths who became suspicious of his movements raised an alarm and gave him a hot chase, leading to his eventual capture and subsequent handover to the police.
“The suspect confessed to committing the crime and stated that he intended to sell the motorcycle to raise money,” SP Edafe said in the statement.
Police Recover Weapon and Motorcycle
The police spokesperson confirmed that the murder weapon — a blood-stained machete — and the stolen motorcycle were recovered from the suspect. The body of the deceased has been deposited at the Ughelli Central Hospital morgue for autopsy.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, has directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for discreet investigation and possible prosecution,” Edafe added.
Police Warn Against Jungle Justice
In response to the incident, the police warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands, urging communities to always hand over suspects to law enforcement rather than resort to mob action.
“We understand the anger such incidents provoke, but jungle justice often leads to more loss of life and hinders investigations,” the police warned.
Rising Crime and Police Response
The murder of the okada rider adds to the growing concerns over rising cases of armed robbery, theft, and homicide involving commercial motorcycle operations in parts of Delta State.
The command, however, assured residents that efforts are ongoing to strengthen surveillance and patrols in rural and semi-urban areas to ensure safety.
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