Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a 21-year-old man identified as ThankGod Destiny in connection with the kidnapping of a four-year-old boy in Benin City, Edo State, in an incident that has drawn sharp public concern and praise for vigilant citizens.
According to the ESSC’s Deputy Corps Commander (Operations), Richard Balogun, the incident occurred on January 4, 2026, in the Ikpoba Hill area of the city. A woman had stepped out briefly with her young child when the boy suddenly disappeared from her sight, prompting alarm and a quick response.
Mr. Balogun explained that Destiny allegedly seized the opportunity to take the child and quickly placed him into a commercial bus bound for King’s Square in Benin City. The situation began to unravel later in the journey when the bus driver noticed an obvious lack of resemblance between the man and the boy and became suspicious, leading him to question the suspect.
As the bus continued, a female passenger also questioned the suspect’s intentions, asking where he was taking the boy. Initially, he claimed the child was sick and that he was taking him to a hospital. When pressed further, he offered a contradictory explanation that he was heading to buy the boy a pair of shoes. The inconsistencies in his story raised concern among passengers, who then raised an alarm.
The commotion caught the attention of ESSC officers on patrol in the area, who promptly intercepted the bus, arrested the suspect and rescued the boy unharmed. The child was safely reunited with his family, bringing relief to the mother and other relatives.
After his arrest, Destiny was handed over to the Edo State Police Command for further investigation and possible prosecution, as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction.
Residents in Benin City have commended the alertness of the bus driver and the female passenger, whose prompt questioning helped prevent what could have been a tragic outcome. Local security sources reaffirmed the ESSC’s commitment to protecting lives and property throughout Edo State, underscoring ongoing efforts to crack down on criminal elements in the region.
This incident highlights persistent concerns about child safety and kidnapping in parts of Nigeria, where community vigilance and coordinated action by security agencies remain critical in responding swiftly to threats against vulnerable populations.
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