Segun Atanda/
In a sweeping security operation hailed as one of the most comprehensive crackdowns in recent times, the Edo State Police Command has announced the arrest of over 175 violent criminals, including kidnappers, armed robbers, and cultists, alongside the recovery of 45 assorted firearms and the rescue of 62 kidnap victims.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, revealed these startling statistics during a press briefing on Monday, declaring the state’s resolve to stamp out criminality and restore public confidence.
According to Agbonika, between April and July 20, 2025, the Command’s intelligence-driven operations led to the recovery of a cache of dangerous weapons, including AK-47 rifles, pump-action guns, locally made pistols, and hundreds of rounds of live ammunition.
“These recoveries were made through credible intelligence, stop-and-search operations, and targeted raids across Benin City, Auchi, Uromi, Iyamho, and Ekpoma,” the CP said.
In what was described as a breakthrough against banditry, the police successfully rescued 62 kidnapped victims, including women and children, from notorious hideouts in Fugar, Okpella, Agenebode, and along the Benin-Lagos Expressway.
A coordinated rescue operation around Fugar-Agenebode road led to the freedom of 14 kidnapped passengers. Tragically, a 12-year-old girl lost her life during the violent encounter, while one victim remains missing.
“Efforts are in top gear to rescue the missing person and apprehend those responsible,” Agbonika said.
The Command also apprehended 40 suspected kidnappers and 11 armed robbers, with exhibits including firearms, stolen vehicles, electronics, and cash recovered. One armed robber was neutralised during a confrontation on the Auchi-Okpella expressway.
Additionally, a total of 124 suspected cultists linked to proscribed groups such as Maphites, Black Axe, and Aiye were rounded up in Benin City, Jattu, Auchi, and Ekpoma.
CP Agbonika praised the growing cooperation between police and local vigilantes, hunters, and community leaders, emphasizing the Command’s commitment to grassroots intelligence gathering. He further assured that the recently activated Inter-Agency Consultative Election Security (ICCES) mechanism will ensure peaceful bye-elections on August 16.
“Let it be known: criminals are not welcome in Edo State,” Agbonika declared. “We will not rest until every corner of this state is safe and secure.”
The Commissioner extended appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, and the Executive Governor of Edo State, Sen. Monday Okpebholo, for their unwavering support in maintaining law and order.
Residents were urged to continue partnering with the police by reporting suspicious activities and remaining vigilant in their communities.
0“We are committed to protecting lives and property, but we also need citizens’ cooperation,” Agbonika added.
