Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a 28-year-old man, Edet Friday, for allegedly attempting to sell a mini bus reportedly stolen in Benin City.
The vehicle, said to belong to a pastor, had been leased to the suspect for commercial use under a daily payment arrangement. Authorities said the suspect disappeared with the bus a few days after taking possession of it.
Security sources disclosed that the pastor reported the incident to the police, prompting a search for both the suspect and the vehicle after they were declared missing.
Investigations revealed that the suspect allegedly hid the bus for about two weeks while seeking a buyer. Unable to secure a deal, he reportedly moved the vehicle to the Ahor bypass area, where he attempted to sell it to scavengers and spare parts dealers.
By the time operatives of the ESSC stormed the location, parts of the bus—including the doors and fuel tank—had already been removed.
The suspect was apprehended after failing to provide a satisfactory explanation regarding the vehicle and was said to have confessed that he intended to sell it.
Confirming the arrest, ESSC Deputy Commander (Operations), Richard Balogun, said the suspect had begun dismantling the vehicle for sale before he was intercepted.
Balogun added that the suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution, reiterating the Corps’ commitment to tackling criminal activities in the state.
