The Edo State Security Corps has arrested a 21-year-old man, ThankGod Destiny, over the alleged abduction of a four-year-old boy at Ikpoba Hill area of Benin City, Edo State.
The suspect was apprehended on January 4, 2026, following swift intervention by operatives of the Corps after alarm was raised by vigilant passengers in a commercial bus.
Speaking with journalists in Benin on Thursday, the Deputy Corps Commander in charge of Operations, Richard Balogun, said the suspect has been handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Balogun explained that the incident occurred when a woman stepped out with her young son at Ikpoba Hill. Moments later, the child reportedly disappeared from her sight, causing panic and triggering a search.
According to him, the suspect allegedly took the child and hurriedly boarded a commercial bus heading towards King’s Square in Benin City.
“Suspicion arose when the bus driver noticed that the child did not resemble the man.”
“The driver asked him about his relationship with the boy, and he claimed the child was sick and that he was taking him to the hospital,” he said.
Balogun added that the suspect gave a different explanation when questioned by a female passenger, telling her he was taking the child to buy a pair of shoes. The conflicting accounts reportedly raised alarm among passengers, who alerted security operatives.
The alarm attracted officers of the Edo State Security Corps who were on routine patrol in the area. The suspect was immediately arrested, while the four-year-old boy was rescued unharmed.
Balogun confirmed that the child has since been reunited with his family, bringing relief to residents of the community.
He reiterated the Corps’ commitment to protecting lives and property across the state, saying, “The Edo State Security Corps will continue to intensify patrols and remain vigilant in tracking down criminal elements.”
Residents of the area have commended the alertness of the bus driver, the concerned passenger, and the prompt response of the security operatives, describing the intervention as timely and commendable.
