Authorities launch manhunt for perpetrators behind university student's murder

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The Edo State Police Command has confirmed it is investigating a fatal shooting incident involving a student of the University of Benin, who was shot dead by gunmen while driving out of the main campus gate in a Mercedes-Benz GLK at Ugbowo on Sunday night.n

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According to an official press statement, the incident took place “at about 1700hrs around the University of Benin axis, Benin City.”

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The statement was signed by the Command’s Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem.

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PUNCH Online earlier reported that the Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo condemned the killing and promised to ensure that justice is served.

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The Command stated: “Preliminary investigation reveals that three occupants of a Mercedes-Benz GLK vehicle namely, Onwuke Blessed ‘M’, Alexander Omogiate ‘M’, and Chinenye Christian Mbagwu ‘M’ were driving out of the University of Benin when an unidentified white GLK vehicle suddenly intercepted them at the University of Benin main campus gate, Ugbowo, lowered their glass and opened fire on the victims and escaped to an unknown destination.”

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The statement further confirmed that additional injury occurred beyond the occupants of the vehicle.

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It read, “As a result of the attack, all occupants sustained various degrees of gunshot injuries, including a female passerby identified as Dorathy Ubah.”

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Police operatives were deployed immediately following the report of the incident.

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“Upon receipt of the report, Police operatives swiftly mobilised to the scene, and the victims were immediately rushed to the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) for urgent medical attention.

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“Sadly, Alexander Omogiate was confirmed dead by the medical doctor on duty, while other injured victims are responding to treatment,” the release further noted.

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The Command also disclosed that a directive has been issued for a full investigation.

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The PPRO said, “The Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, has ordered a full-scale investigation into the incident with a view to tracking down the fleeing perpetrators and bringing them to justice.”

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A warning was also issued regarding criminal activity within the state.

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It added, “The Command sternly warns all criminal elements and hoodlums operating within the State, especially the university campuses, to desist from acts of violence and criminality, as the Edo State Police Command remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to rid the State of all forms of crime and criminality.

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“The Command assures the public that no stone will be left unturned in bringing those responsible for this heinous act to justice.”

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Members of the public were also urged to assist with information.

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“The Command also appeals to members of the public with useful or credible information that can assist ongoing investigations to promptly report to the nearest Police Station or contact the Command through its emergency lines.

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“All information provided will be treated with utmost confidentiality,” it concluded.

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