129 SUSPECTS TAKEN INTO CUSTODY AS POLICE RESCUE 30 KIDNAP VICTIMS

The Edo State Police Command announced that it has arrested at least 129 suspects for various crimes across the state since January 2026.

The Command also reported the rescue of 30 kidnapped victims, along with the recovery of six stolen vehicles, three motorcycles, and 39 mobile phones.

Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika made the disclosure on Friday during the first end-of-the-month press conference of 2026 in Benin City, as reported by the media.

Agbonika provided a detailed breakdown of the arrests: 13 suspected murderers, 14 armed robbers, 87 suspected kidnappers, and 15 suspected cultists. He added that many of the kidnapped victims were rescued unharmed.

The Commissioner also outlined the firearms and ammunition recovered during the period, including:

• Two fabricated AK-47 rifles with six live rounds

• One AK-47 rifle with 30 live rounds

• 16 rounds of 9mm ammunition

• Five cut-to-size single-barrelled shotguns

• 28 Dane guns

• One Makarov pistol

• One Beretta pistol

• One double-barrelled shotgun

• 20 live cartridges

Agbonika attributed these successes to close coordination with the “Nigerian Army”,”Nigeria military”, Nigerian Air ForceNigeria military”, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Edo State Security Corps, the Department of State Services, and local hunters.

Operations included coordinated bush-combing missions, night raids, highway checkpoints, sting operations, and tactical offensives.

“From the forests of Edo North to the highways and flashpoints of Edo Central, we have maintained an unrelenting, intelligence-driven campaign against kidnappers, armed robbers, cultists, murder suspects, and other organized crime networks threatening the peace of Edo State,” Agbonika said.

He added that helicopters and drone technology allowed police operatives to penetrate dense bush areas previously controlled by criminal gangs, dismantling many illegal camps and reopening feared routes.

The Commissioner noted that operations have been sustained since proactive security measures ahead of Valentine’s Day and emphasized that each recovered weapon potentially saves a life, while each arrest brings justice closer to victims of crime.

Agbonika affirmed that the tempo of security operations will not only continue but will intensify to restore lasting peace, boost public confidence, and maintain safety for residents and investors.

He praised Governor Monday Okpebholo for donating a squadron of drones and other logistical support, which has significantly enhanced the operational capabilities of the security agencies. Specialized drone training for tactical operatives now allows real-time aerial reconnaissance.

“To our officers and men who brave bullets, harsh terrain, and sleepless nights, I commend your courage. To the good people of Edo State, continue supporting us with credible information. Security is a shared responsibility, and together we will win,” Agbonika concluded.