The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Kwara State has apprehended a 21-year-old individual, Soliu Olarewaju, in connection with the alleged kidnapping and murder of a 60-year-old electrical technician, Olarewaju Olusegun. The State Commandant, Abbas Nda, disclosed this on Sunday, stating that the arrest followed an intensive investigation into the victim's disappearance.
Investigation and Arrest
According to the commandant, Afolabi (the victim) left his residence last week to inspect an electrical installation project but failed to return home, prompting concern among family members and associates. The case was reported to the corps' Tracking Unit last Thursday after several failed attempts to reach the victim.
“Shortly after his disappearance, family members reportedly began receiving ransom demands of two million naira from his mobile phone,” the NSCDC Commandant said. The family raised and paid N120,000 demanded by the abductor while security operatives launched an investigation involving digital tracking and analysis of financial transactions linked to the victim’s account.
“The investigation led to the arrest of the suspect, who allegedly confessed to the crime during interrogation,” Nda added. The suspect admitted knowing the deceased, having previously worked with him as an assistant on electrical installation jobs.
Details of the Crime
According to the command, the suspect allegedly lured the victim to an uncompleted building in the Kangile area of Kunlende, Ilorin, under the pretext of inspecting a new project. He reportedly confessed to killing the victim and taking possession of his mobile phone and SIM card, which were later used to demand ransom from the family.
The NSCDC stated that the suspect subsequently led operatives to the scene, where a shallow grave believed to contain the victim’s remains was discovered. The victim’s phone and SIM card were also recovered.
Ongoing Investigations
The commandant assured residents that investigations are ongoing and urged members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies to support efforts to combat crime in the state.
