Paul Idehen, an Edo State kidnapping victim, has recounted how he recovered his Lexus SUV after kidnappers allegedly changed its colour and registration number in an attempt to conceal its identity.
According to a Daily Post report published on Sunday, June 28, 2026, Idehen identified the vehicle through unique markings he had inscribed inside it.
Idehen was abducted in Benin City and released after his family paid a ₦5.5 million ransom. Before freeing him, the kidnappers reportedly took his wedding ring and Lexus SUV.
The Edo State Police Command later arrested a suspected kidnapper and recovered a Lexus RX 350 allegedly used in kidnapping operations. Officers also recovered a shotgun, live cartridges, ₦2.2 million, and a motorcycle.
Speaking after reclaiming the vehicle, Idehen said the alterations did not prevent him from recognizing it.
“I had inscribed several identifying marks inside the SUV. At a point, I almost gave up because from April till now, it is almost two months. I had already resigned myself to the fact that the car was gone forever,” he said.
