Tragedy has struck a family in Edo State after suspected kidnappers killed one of two brothers abducted from their home in Auchi, Edo North Local Government Area.
The brothers were reportedly abducted on January 2 while attempting to enter their residence along City Pride Road in the Igbira Camp area.
On Monday, their father, Tahir Momoh, confirmed that the younger of the two siblings, Abu Momoh, had been killed by the abductors.
According to him, Abu’s body was discovered on Monday morning and was buried the same day in line with family and religious customs.
“It is true. My younger son has been killed and buried. His elder brother is still with the kidnappers. This is a very painful moment for us, and we are praying that the remaining one will be released alive,” he said.
A short video circulating within the community allegedly shows the victim being killed near the Orley River area, close to where the abduction occurred.
However, community sources, who declined to be named due to the sensitive nature of the incident, suggested that the victim may have been shot while attempting to escape from captivity.
The surviving brother, Ibrahim Momoh, is a medical doctor currently undergoing his housemanship at the Edo State Teaching Hospital in Auchi. He remains in the custody of the kidnappers as of the time of reporting.
Residents of the area have expressed growing concern over rising cases of kidnapping in Igbira Camp.
One resident, Abdul, urged security agencies to intensify patrols and investigations in the community, noting that several incidents allegedly go unreported.
“The level of kidnapping around this area is becoming alarming. Authorities need to act decisively to restore confidence and safety,” he said.
The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦200 million for the brothers’ release. Following negotiations, the demand was reportedly reduced to ₦100 million, with the family hoping for further concessions before the tragic development.
Confirming the incident, the Edo State Police Command said officers found the victim’s body during a bush search operation, adding that investigations and rescue efforts are ongoing to secure the release of the surviving brother.
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