Man killed over illegal ticket dispute in Benin

By Jethro Ibileke

The Edo State Special Security Squad, code-named Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, has confirmed the killing of a middle-aged man identified only as Courage, over an alleged dispute involving proceeds from illegal ticketing.

The Secretary of the Special Squad, John Izegaegbe, confirmed the incident in a statement on Sunday. He said the victim, popularly known as Dogo, was killed in the early hours of Friday, February 13, 2026, at Eboh Quarters, Estate Gate, in Benin.

Izegaegbe clarified that the killing was not cult-related but arose from a disagreement over park ticketing activities. Although the Edo State Government had banned certain ticketing operations, the deceased was allegedly involved in illegal ticketing and was accused of failing to share proceeds fairly. The dispute reportedly led to a conspiracy that ended in his death.

“We must tell you the fact that it is not a cult killing. We have investigated and investigations are still ongoing,” Izegaegbe said.

The killing sparked a reprisal attack at Wire Road in Benin, carried out by individuals who mistakenly believed certain people were responsible. Several suspects have since been arrested and are providing information that may lead to more arrests.

In a dramatic discovery, the Special Squad recovered a K2 Army magazine loaded with live ammunition inside a vehicle near the scene. The vehicle’s occupants fled upon seeing the operatives. Preliminary investigations also revealed that a 9mm Beretta pistol was used, with cartridges recovered at the scene.