By Admin 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Warri
DELTA: The Delta State Police Command has arrested four suspects involved in the gruesome murder of Paulinus Okon and the recovery of his skull at a shrine in Otokutu, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State.
Speaking during a press briefing in Asaba, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abaniwonda S. Olufemi, described the case as “a tragic betrayal of trust and friendship,” assuring that justice would be served.
According to CP Olufemi, Paulinus Okon was last seen on September 8, 2024, after going out with his friend, Efe Onoitiyi, aged 30. Days later, Efe approached the victim’s family, demanding ₦500,000 to consult a herbalist for Paulinus’s whereabouts. Efe later fabricated a kidnapping story, extorting over ₦20 million in ransom from the family.
“When suspicions heightened, Efe was arrested, and the case was transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of another suspect, Okeimute Gaga, who made shocking revelations,” the CP disclosed.
Okeimute, aged 48, confessed that Efe masterminded the killing, involving himself, Sunday Ikpeba, and a herbalist, Lawrence Joseph, aged 30. He detailed how Paulinus was tied to a stake at the Orere River, beheaded, and his body disposed of in the river. The herbalist buried the skull at his shrine, which was later exhumed by police operatives.
During interrogation, Efe admitted he killed Paulinus after fraudulently collecting ₦30 million from him for a non-existent property. “Efe used the money to buy land and start building a duplex. When he couldn’t account for the funds, he decided to eliminate his friend to avoid exposure,” CP Olufemi revealed.
The Commissioner reassured the public of the command’s commitment to justice. “This despicable act will not go unpunished. The suspects are in custody and will soon face the full weight of the law,” he stated.