Following the report of a deadly shooting in Auchi, Edo State, police have begun a manhunt to track down two gunmen who killed a well-known vulcaniser in the area. The victim, simply identified as Boyo, was gunned down on Friday near his roadside workshop along Warrake Road in the Etsako West Local Government Area.
According to Edo State Police spokesperson Moses Yamu, the attackers were riding a motorcycle when they carried out the act.
“We got the report yesterday, but the assailants, who were on a motorcycle, had already escaped. The victim was confirmed dead at the hospital,” he said. Yamu also noted that the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has ordered an intensive search to apprehend those responsible, promising that none of the suspects will go unpunished.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as swift and terrifying. A nearby trader recounted how two men arrived on a motorcycle and stopped close to Boyo’s usual work spot. The one riding on the back reportedly got down, walked straight to Boyo—who was resting at the time—and fired two shots without saying a word.
“It all happened in an instant. The gunman didn’t utter a word; he just shot and escaped. Everyone was thrown into panic,” the witness recalled.
The community remains in shock following the incident. A local leader said Boyo was known for being diligent and peaceful. He noted that the attack has left many residents fearful and confused, especially given the area’s generally calm reputation.
“This is horrifying. To kill someone in broad daylight is outrageous. We urge law enforcement agencies to take immediate action,” the leader said.
