Suspected armed robbers have k!lled a Point-of-Sale operator, Raphael Eletanye, 38, in Benin City, Edo State.
The incident occurred on January 3, 2026 at about 9:50 pm along Murtala Muhammed Way, near Upper Uwa Junction, where the deceased operated his business.
An eyewitness said the assailants arrived in an unregistered white minibus and attacked the victim at his business location before fleeing the scene.
Spokesperson of the Edo State Police Command, Eno Ikoedem, who confirmed the incident said the victim later d!ed from injuries sustained during the attack.
“On 3rd January, 2026, at about 9:50pm, the Command received a distress call from Upper Uwa Junction along MM Way reporting that an armed robbery incident involving a POS operator, one Raphael Eletanye, aged 38,” the PPRO said.
“The unknown armed men operated in an unregistered white mini-bus. The Divisional Police Officer, Esigie Division was immediately mobilised to the scene. The victim was immediately rushed to the hospital but unfortunately was confirmed d3ad.
“A preliminary investigation revealed that the victim was shot on the thigh before the assailants carted away an unspecified amount of cash.”
Ikoedem said the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, had ordered a thorough investigation into the incident, adding that efforts were ongoing to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.
She urged members of the public with useful information to contact the Command through its 24-hour emergency lines: 08077773721 and 08037646272.
The police spokesperson added that the command had intensified efforts to curb armed robbery and other crimes in the state, working in collaboration with sister security agencies.
She noted that the Edo State Government had also provided vehicles and other security equipment to support the police and other security outfits in ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens.