The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Edo State has arrested two suspects in connection with the alleged abduction and sexual assault of a teenage girl in Ewohimi, Esan South East Local Government Area.
The victim has been rescued and placed in protective care, according to a statement issued Wednesday by Dr Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The case was set in motion on June 19, 2026, when one Odion Enokhimion walked into the NSCDC Ewohimi Division to report his sister missing. The girl had allegedly been taken by unknown persons a day earlier.
Acting on the complaint, NSCDC operatives launched an investigation that led to the arrest of two Ewohimi residents — Orhiabor ThankGod, 20, and Saturday Freedom, 16.
Investigators say the suspects contacted the victim’s family after the abduction and demanded a ransom of ₦800,000, later negotiating it down to ₦300,000. Incriminating conversations were recovered from a mobile phone belonging to one of the suspects, and a bank account allegedly linked to the duo has also been identified.
A medical examination carried out at the Edo State Sexual Assault Referral Centre — the Sen. Daisy Ehanire Danjuma Vivian Centre in Benin City — confirmed the victim was sexually assaulted. She subsequently received medical treatment and professional counselling at the facility.
Both suspects remain in custody. The NSCDC said they will be charged to court once investigations are concluded.
The incident comes as Edo State security agencies intensify efforts to combat violent crimes, particularly those targeting women and children.
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