Delta Police Arrest Suspect Over Murder of 80-Year-Old Man

The Delta State Police Command has arrested a 32-year-old man, Alex Kehinde, in connection with the alleged murder of an 80-year-old man in Asaba–Ogwashi, Aniocha South Local Government Area of the state.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, Bright Edafe, said the suspect was tracked down and apprehended in Lagos State following what he described as a “technically driven investigation,” months after the incident occurred on February 3, 2026.

According to Edafe, the elderly victim was found dead in his home after allegedly being suffocated by Kehinde and an accomplice identified only as “Egbon,” who is currently at large.

Preliminary findings indicated that the deceased had engaged the suspects to renovate his apartment with plans to rent it out. He reportedly paid them N200,000 for the job.

However, the suspects allegedly abandoned the renovation work and instead conspired to kidnap the man. Edafe explained that they took the victim upstairs in his residence, where he was attacked and his mouth covered with a mobile phone to prevent him from calling for help. The victim reportedly suffocated and died at the scene.

Instead of seeking assistance, the suspects allegedly stole the victim’s motorcycle and mobile phone. The phone was later sold at Ogbeogonogo Market in Asaba for N30,000.

In a further twist, the suspects allegedly used the victim’s SIM card to contact his son, falsely claiming that he had been kidnapped. They then demanded a ransom of N2 million, which the family reportedly paid. The suspects are said to have shared the proceeds equally, receiving N1 million each.

The police spokesperson urged members of the public to remain vigilant when dealing with unfamiliar individuals, especially in isolated settings, and to take precautions that could reduce exposure to such risks.

Edafe added that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing accomplice and ensure all those involved are brought to justice.

In his statement to investigators, Kehinde reportedly admitted his involvement in the crime and said his accomplice had suggested that the victim be killed.