Edo: Police arrest suspected vandals of AIT equipment, two others over stolen SUVs

In Edo State, Nigeria, the police have apprehended two individuals suspected of vandalizing equipment belonging to Africa Independent Television, valued at around N150 million. The suspects, identified as Martins Donatus, aged 26, and Mohammed Abubakar, aged 28, were apprehended near Benin–Idogbo Road in Ikhueniro Community. Commissioner of Police Patrick Daaor announced this during a public event in Benin City, where he presented the suspects alongside additional criminals.

According to Daaor, on August 10, 2026, around 1139 hours, the police received a report of vandalism at the AIT premises along Benin–Idogbo Road. The arrested suspects were found in possession of valuable television master control room transmission equipment, estimated to be worth approximately N150 million. The exhibits have since been recovered, and the suspects are co-operating with the police to broaden the investigation and bring other members of the syndicate to justice.

Furthermore, the police also arrested two additional suspects for allegedly stealing Toyota Highlander Jeeps. On August 15, 2026, at approximately 1300 hours, a surveillance team from the Okhoro Division intercepted two vehicles suspected to be stolen or abandoned at Five Junction, off Iheya–Uselu Lagos Road, in Benin City. One of the vehicles was confirmed to have been stolen.

During a search of the vehicles, a toy gun was recovered. The police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the vehicles and working to identify the individuals responsible.