The Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) has arrested 18 suspected kidnappers and armed robbers along the Benin-Auchi Road in Edo State. The arrest, made during a bush-combing operation, led to the recovery of 38 locally-made guns, pellets, and several charms.
The Commandant of the Corps, Friday Ibadin, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday, revealing that the suspects were apprehended near the Eguedion Camp, close to an army checkpoint.
According to Ibadin, the arrest occurred on Friday, 14 February 2025, when security personnel spotted two individuals carrying guns. Upon sighting the operatives, the suspects fled, but were chased to a camp where 18 people were eventually arrested.
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“Seventeen of the suspects are non-indigenes, while one is a local from the Agbede community,” Ibadin said. “We recovered 38 fully-loaded locally-made guns and various charms during the operation.”
The commandant reassured residents that the government remains committed to ensuring their safety, especially during the farming season. He emphasized the importance of continued bush combing and sensitization of locals to rid the forests of criminal elements.
“Our men will keep combing the bushes and working with locals to secure the forests and ensure that Edo State remains safe for everyone,” he added.
After the arrest, the suspects were handed over to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of the Agbede Police Station. Ibadin called for stronger collaboration between the corps and other security agencies to effectively combat crime in the state.
This operation comes just days after Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, directed security agencies to intensify efforts to clear criminals from the state’s forests and make the environment safer for farmers and residents.