Delta State Police Command has apprehended four suspects involved in the brutal killing of Paulinus Okon, whose skull was uncovered at a shrine in Otokutu, near Warri.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, who paraded the suspects on Monday at the command headquarters in Asaba, said the lead suspect, Efe Onoetiyi, 30, was a close friend of the victim.
Paulinus was declared missing on 8th September 2024 after leaving home with Efe.
Despite initially denying involvement, Efe repeatedly visited Paulinus’s family, demanding large sums of money under the pretext of aiding in his rescue.
He extorted over ₦20.7 million, claiming it was ransom for Paulinus’s release.
Following Efe’s arrest, an investigation led by the Ekpan Police Division revealed shocking details.
Another suspect, Okeimute Gaga, 48, confessed to the murder, recounting how Paulinus was brought to Orere River, tied to a stake, and beheaded by Efe, Okeimute, Sunday Ikpeba, and a herbalist, Lawrence Joseph.
The herbalist buried Paulinus’s head at his shrine, where police later recovered it.
Efe admitted to orchestrating the murder to conceal his fraudulent activities.
He had deceived Paulinus into paying ₦30 million for a non-existent property, using the funds for personal projects, including land purchases and a duplex construction.
Fearing exposure, Efe conspired to kill his friend.
Commissioner of Police, CP Olufemi Abaniwonda, confirmed that the four suspects are in custody and will face prosecution.
The case has left the community in shock as investigations continue.
