Date: February 8, 2026 l Dalena Reporters
The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspected kidnappers believed to be responsible for the abduction of a medical doctor and his brother in Auchi, Estako West Local Government Area, security officials said on Sunday, February 8, 2026.
According to the police, the suspects were detained in separate operations following extensive intelligence-led investigations into the kidnapping of Dr. Babatunde Abu and his brother, Tahir Abu, who were abducted at their residence on January 2, 2026. While Dr. Babatunde was later released after a ransom was paid, his younger brother was reportedly killed during the ordeal.
The first breakthrough came on February 3, when officers attached to the Auchi Division, working alongside local hunters and vigilante groups, intercepted a suspect, Saminu Kawujie, during a bush-combing operation in Warake Forest. An identification parade at the police station later linked him to the kidnapping.
Two additional suspects, Idris Abubakar and Sani Abubakar, were arrested later at a hospital in Auchi after Dr. Babatunde reportedly recognised them while on duty, leading security operatives to take them into custody. Police identified one of the men as the person who received the ransom for Dr. Abu’s release.
Edo police spokesperson ASP Eno Ikoedem said the suspects are currently being held at the Auchi Divisional Police Station as investigations continue, with efforts ongoing to dismantle the wider kidnapping network responsible for terrorising communities in the area.
The arrests represent a significant setback for the criminal net accused of the heinous abduction and deadly outcome in the Auchi region, highlighting intensified law enforcement operations to combat kidnapping and protect vulnerable residents across Edo State.