Delta police arrest serial killers who targeted taxi drivers, recovered stolen vehicles

The Delta State Police Command has arrested two suspects responsible for a series of brutal murders of taxi drivers, uncovering a chilling modus operandi in which they posed as passengers to lure victims to their deaths. The criminals, who often collaborated with young female accomplices to appear less suspicious, have now been apprehended after an intensive investigation.

According to the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Delta State Police Command, Bright Edafe, the suspects deliberately targeted taxi drivers under the guise of needing a ride, only to strangle them mid-journey and steal their vehicles.  

Their strategy was carefully planned—a young woman would accompany them, making it easier to gain the trust of unsuspecting drivers. The group would hire a taxi under the pretense of going to social venues such as hotels and nightclubs, ensuring they had control of the environment. Once inside the vehicle, one suspect would sit in the front seat while the other positioned himself behind the driver. When the moment was right, they would strangle the driver with a rope, ensuring swift and silent execution before dumping the body in an isolated location.

One of their most gruesome crimes occurred last year when, following this method, they murdered a taxi driver and disposed of his body. However, in a surprising the young woman who was in the taxi with them later reported it to the police, providing crucial information that set the investigation in motion.  

Police inquiries revealed that the suspects had attempted a similar attack in Benin, Edo State, but the targeted driver managed to escape before they could kill him. However, they still stole his vehicle which they later attempted to sell at a scrapyard in Warri.

Their criminal activities were exposed when the scrapyard owner in Warri, suspecting foul play, alerted the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ekpan Police Station. Acting swiftly, officers apprehended the suspects before the sale could be completed.  

Upon interrogation, both men confessed to their crimes, admitting to the series of taxi driver murders. The young woman who initially reported them later identified them as the culprits, further strengthening the case against them.

The police have recovered the stolen vehicle and confirmed that its owner was one of the victims murdered by the suspects. Investigations are still ongoing to determine if more victims fell prey to their cold-blooded scheme.

The suspects will face prosecution, with authorities assuring the public that justice will be served. The Delta State Police Command has also urged taxi drivers to remain vigilant and report any suspicious passengers to prevent similar crimes in the future.  

This chilling case serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by transport workers and highlights the critical role of community vigilance in exposing criminal activities.