The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) has apprehended at least 18 individuals suspected of involvement in kidnapping and armed robbery across the state.
The corps commandant, Friday Ibadin, a retired Commissioner of Police, disclosed this in a statement issued in Benin City.
Ibadin stated that the suspects were apprehended along the Benin-Auchi road, and 38 locally-made guns, pellets, and several charms were recovered from them.
He explained that the arrests were made during a bush-combing operation near Equedion Camp, close to the army checkpoint along the Benin-Auchi Road.
According to him, 17 of the suspects were non-indigenes of Edo State, while one indigene was from the Agbede community in Etsako West Local Government Area of the state.
“On 14 February 2025, while on patrol along the Benin-Auchi Road near Eguedion Camp, close to the soldiers’ checkpoint, two individuals were sighted holding guns. On spotting my men, they fled. They were pursued to a camp, where 18 suspects were arrested.
“Seventeen of the 18 arrested suspects are non-indigenes, while one is an indigene from the Agbede community. In the process, 38 fully loaded locally made guns and charms were also recovered,” he said.
Ibadin further stated that the suspects had been handed over to the Divisional Police Officer at Agbede Police Station. He also called for closer collaboration between the corps and other security agencies in the state.
While emphasising the need for a concerted effort to rid the state of criminal elements, he assured that his personnel would continue combing the bushes and sensitising locals to ensure that the forests are cleared of criminals, making the state safe and secure for all.
He also reassured residents of the state government’s commitment to providing an enabling environment, particularly during this year’s farming season.
He affirmed that his men would continue to intensify efforts to ensure that Edo State is completely rid of criminals.
The corps commandant noted that the arrest of the 18 suspects came just days after Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, issued a directive to security agencies to flush out criminals and make the state’s forests and bushes safe and secure for farmers, residents, and the general public.
