MINNEAPOLIS – Authorities in Minnesota are engaged in a multi-state and international manhunt for an underground musician accused of murdering the mother of his children before fleeing the country, according to law enforcement sources.
The suspect has been identified as Wesley Benedict Koboi, a 31-year-old Liberian national living in Minnesota who performs under the stage name “Wesofeeso.” Police have issued a warrant for his arrest on a charge of murder.
Alleged Crime and Flight
According to preliminary police reports, the incident began with a domestic argument. Koboi is alleged to have shot the victim, the mother of his five children, in the head. After the shooting, he reportedly gathered the children and drove from Minnesota to Michigan, where he left them with his mother.
From there, investigators believe he drove to the U.S.-Canada border, entered Canada on foot, and then boarded a flight to Mexico. His current whereabouts are unknown.
Victim and Suspect Background
The identity of the victim has not been officially released by police pending family notification. Neighbors described her as a devoted mother.
Koboi, known in the local Twin Cities Liberian community for his music, worked as an armored truck security guard for Brink’s. In this role, he legally possessed a firearm permit, which police say he used in the alleged crime. Public records show a person named Wesley Benedict was arrested in Memphis, Tennessee, in September 2023 on unrelated theft charges.
Ongoing Investigation
“The investigation is in its early stages, and we are pursuing all avenues,” a police spokesperson stated. “We are actively coordinating with federal agencies and international authorities, including those in Mexico, to locate and apprehend the suspect.”
The spokesperson confirmed that the victim’s body was discovered after one of the children alerted a family member. The five children are now in the care of relatives and are receiving support services.
The case highlights the challenges of cross-border fugitive investigations. While not directly related, recent cases like the hunt for Canadian fugitive Ryan Wedding show that collaboration between U.S. and Mexican authorities can be effective, though sometimes complicated. Mexican federal agents have recently been involved in high-profile searches for fugitives believed to be in the country.
Community Reaction and Resources
News of the crime has sent shockwaves through the local Liberian community in the Twin Cities, where Koboi had a following. Community leaders are urging anyone with information to contact police.
Authorities are asking anyone with information on Wesley Benedict Koboi’s whereabouts to contact the Minneapolis Police Department tipline. The investigation remains active.