Suspected kidnappers accused of abducting a medical doctor and killing his younger brother have been arrested following an unexpected encounter at a hospital in Edo State. Authorities say the suspects unknowingly exposed themselves when they brought their sick child for treatment at a facility connected to their alleged victim.
According to reports, the suspects visited the Special Care Baby Unit (SCBU) of a hospital where Dr. Ibrahim Tahir is affiliated. At the time, the doctor was reportedly present at the hospital for routine medical care when he allegedly recognized some of the individuals as members of the group that had earlier abducted him.
Hospital staff and security personnel were immediately informed after the doctor raised the alarm. Law enforcement officials were contacted, and the suspects were quickly apprehended at the facility without incident.
Investigations revealed that Dr. Tahir and his younger brother were abducted on January 2, 2025, from their residence in Auchi, Edo State. The family later paid a ransom of about ₦50 million to secure the doctor’s release.
Despite the payment, the doctor’s younger brother was later discovered dead. Authorities believe he was killed during the period of captivity, a development that sparked outrage and renewed concerns about kidnapping in the region.
Security agencies say the arrest has provided investigators with valuable leads that may help uncover other members of the suspected gang and their operations. Officials added that the suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution once investigations are concluded.
The incident has also reignited conversations around safety, healthcare security, and the risks faced by professionals and residents in areas affected by violent crime. Community leaders have called for stronger intelligence gathering and more proactive policing to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
