How Gunmen on Motorcycle Killed Popular Vulcaniser in Edo State

Fear and confusion spread through the community of Auchi in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State on Friday after a popular vulcaniser, known simply as Boyo, was shot dead in broad daylight by unidentified gunmen.

According to eyewitness accounts, the assailants, two men riding a motorcycle, arrived at Boyo’s roadside workshop along Warrake Road in the early afternoon. Without warning or conversation, one of the men dismounted, approached the vulcaniser—who was reportedly resting at the time—and shot him twice at close range. The attackers quickly fled the scene, leaving residents in shock.

A nearby trader who witnessed the incident said the killing happened in seconds. “It all happened so fast. The gunman didn’t say anything. He just walked up to Boyo, shot him, and escaped. The area was thrown into chaos,” she recalled.

The brutal nature of the attack and the fact that it occurred in daylight have left many residents unsettled. Community leaders described Boyo as a peaceful and diligent man who had operated his business in the area for years. “This is a terrifying development. Warrake Road is usually quiet. To witness such brutal violence in broad daylight is unacceptable. We call on security agencies to ensure swift justice,” said a concerned community representative.

The Edo State Police Command confirmed the incident on Saturday. Police Public Relations Officer, Moses Yamu, stated that the attackers escaped immediately after carrying out the act. He added that the victim was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead on arrival.

Yamu further noted that a full-scale investigation and manhunt had been launched. “We received the report yesterday. The victim was confirmed dead at the hospital, and a manhunt for the fleeing suspects is ongoing. The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, has assured the public that no one involved in this heinous act will be spared,” he said.

The police have urged anyone with useful information that could lead to the arrest of the culprits to come forward, promising that all tips will be treated confidentially.