The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara Command, has arrested a 21-year-old suspect, Soliu Mujeeb over alleged kidnapping, abduction and culpable homicide involving his employer, 60-year-old Mr Olarewaju Afolabi.
Mr Abbas Nda-Muhammed, Kwara commandant of NSCDC, disclosed this to newsmen on Sunday in Ilorin.
He said the case was reported at the Command’s Tracking Unit on June 11, after Afolabi was declared missing.
Nda-Muhammed explained that the victim left his residence on June 7 to inspect an electrical wiring site.
“He did not return home after leaving for the assignment,” the Commandant said.
He said the victim’s family later received a ransom demand of N2 million through Afolabi’s phone.
“The family was only able to raise N120,000, which was paid as directed by the caller.
“The caller promised to release the victim after receiving the money,” he added.
The Commandant said operatives traced the suspect through investigation and financial analysis of funds paid into the victim’s Opay account.
He said interrogation revealed that Mujeeb worked with Afolabi as a ‘joinman’ in electrical installation services.
“The suspect confessed that there was a disagreement between him and the victim over missing material.
“He said the victim forced him to pay for it installments,” Nda-Muhammed stated.
He added that the suspect became angry after deductions started from his salary.
“The suspect said it annoyed him when the victim started removing money from his salary,” the commandant said.
Nda-Muhammed said the suspect allegedly lured Afolabi to Anuoluwapo Community, Kangile, Ilorin East.
He said the victim was taken there under the guise of inspecting a new electrical project.
The Commandant alleged that the suspect attacked and killed Afolabi at the uncompleted building.
He said the suspect took the victim’s phone and SIM card before demanding ransom.
“The suspect used the victim’s phone to demand money from the family,” he added.
Nda-Muhammed said the suspect later led operatives to the scene of the incident.
He said a shallow grave containing Afolabi’s remains, mobile phone and SIM card were discovered.
The commandant said the investigation was still ongoing and the case would be transferred appropriately.
He explained that the suspect would face further investigation and prosecution after preliminary findings.
Nda-Muhammed assured residents that NSCDC remained committed to protecting life and property.
“Our commitment is to work tirelessly with other agencies to rid Kwara of criminals,” he said.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies.
Nda-Muhammed said public cooperation remained essential in tackling criminal activities across the state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)