Edo Police Refutes Rumour on Release of Suspects in the Murder of 12-Year-Old Emiliano Egwunbare

The Edo State Police Command has clarified the status of suspects arrested in connection with the murder of 12-year-old Emiliano Egwunbare, describing as false the claims circulating on social media that the suspects have been released from custody.

In a statement issued by the Command, the Police explained that the viral video in which the mother of the deceased made the allegation was misleading and does not reflect the true position of the case.

According to the statement, the incident occurred on September 16, 2025, when young Emiliano was kidnapped by suspected abductors in Obagie Community, Egor Local Government Area of Benin City. The matter was first reported at the Ogida Police Division before being transferred to the Anti-Kidnapping and Cyber Crime Unit for a discreet investigation.

Following sustained tactical and technical intelligence operations, three suspects, Tega Emajuwa (18), Edugie Destiny (20), and Osayande Vincent (23) were arrested. The suspects reportedly made confessional statements linking them to the abduction and subsequent killing of the boy. The victim’s remains were later discovered inside a well in the community and deposited at the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) mortuary for autopsy.

Addressing the recent allegations, the Command stated clearly that the suspects remained in lawful custody until they were charged to court on October 16, 2025, where the matter is presently ongoing. The court subsequently ordered that the suspects be remanded for prosecution. The Command further noted that the victim’s mother was present during the court proceedings.

The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, expressed deep sympathy to the grieving family and acknowledged their pain and desire for justice. He appealed for calm and understanding, emphasizing that the Command operates strictly in accordance with constitutional provisions and international best practices.

He explained that the Command does not parade suspects before the media in order to protect the integrity of ongoing investigations and to safeguard the rights of individuals under prosecution.The Commissioner assured the public that the Police will ensure that justice is served and reiterated the Command’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and accountability.

The Edo State Police Command therefore urged members of the public to disregard false and unverified social media reports, and to seek clarification directly from the Command whenever necessary. The statement reaffirmed the Command’s readiness to provide accurate information and maintain public confidence in the criminal justice process.