Edo Police Arrest Nine Suspects in Major Security Crackdown

The Edo State Police Command has announced the arrest of nine individuals linked to kidnapping, cultism, armed robbery, and other violent crimes. The arrests were made during coordinated, intelligence-based operations across Benin City over the past week.

Command spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, disclosed the developments in a statement on Sunday. She attributed the successes to sustained patrols, rapid response to distress calls, and proactive strategies under Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika.

One operation occurred in the early hours of Saturday, January 25, following reports of gunshots at a residence along Erediuwawa Street. Officers from the Eagle Crack Unit arrested 41-year-old Emmanuel Omorodion after a chase, recovering a double-barrel gun and a live cartridge.

In a separate raid based on intelligence about cult activities in the Eyaen area, the Intelligence Rapid Response Team stormed Ibojije Hotel. The operation led to the capture of alleged kingpin Usifo Omojale and five other suspected members of the Aye confraternity. The apprehended individuals have reportedly confessed to involvement in kidnapping, extortion, and cultism.

Additionally, on Thursday, January 23, police responded to an armed robbery incident at Uwadia Street. One suspect, Gondas Innocent, was arrested after an exchange of gunfire, while another, Tasman Nanman, was found at a nearby hideout. Recovered items included machetes, a laptop, and a phone.

Ikoedem stated that investigations are ongoing to dismantle the criminal networks, and all suspects will be prosecuted. She reaffirmed the command’s commitment to intelligence-led policing and collaboration with security networks, urging residents to continue providing timely information to aid crime-fighting efforts.

This crackdown follows recent reports of the command arresting 14 suspects for cult-related activities, including the hijacking of a corpse.