By Yemi Akinsuyi
Operatives of the Edo State Taskforce have dismantled a three-man kidnap syndicate along the Aduwawa axis of Benin City and successfully rescued a young woman allegedly held by the suspects for criminal purposes.
The suspects—James Ehigator from Uromi, Atiku Muhammad from Suleja in Niger State, and Osas Iwagbonsoria from Ekpoma—were arrested during a routine patrol while conveying the victim in an Audi vehicle with registration number EPE 427 GS.
Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the Commissioner for Security and Public Safety, Hon. Festus Ebea, said the arrest reflects the firm resolve of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s administration to dismantle criminal networks and secure all parts of Edo State.
He disclosed that the Governor has directed all security agencies operating in the state, including the Edo State Security Corps, to deepen collaboration, strengthen intelligence sharing, and deploy advanced surveillance tools to proactively combat crime.
According to the Commissioner, the state government has continued to provide robust logistical and operational support to security agencies, including enhanced surveillance and coordinated information-sharing, to ensure the safety of residents, especially during the festive season.
Hon. Ebea urged residents to remain vigilant and cautious, warning against engaging with strangers who may feign distress or seek directions as a ploy to lure unsuspecting victims.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the Taskforce acted on intelligence reports about suspicious activities around the Upper Mission Extension area. Upon intercepting the vehicle, operatives recovered items suspected to be linked to the syndicate’s criminal operations.
The suspects are currently being profiled and will be handed over to the appropriate security agencies for further investigation and prosecution in line with the law.
The rescued victim, who requested anonymity, said she was on her way to visit her elder sister when one of the suspects approached her under the guise of seeking directions, after which she was allegedly deceived into entering the vehicle.
Commander of the Edo State Taskforce, CSP Michael Anetor, explained that operatives became suspicious during patrol, stopped the vehicle for a routine search, and noticed inconsistencies in the occupants’ responses, which prompted further investigation and led to the arrest.
He added that the timely intervention of the Taskforce prevented the suspects from executing their alleged plans, describing the operation as a major boost to the state’s ongoing fight against kidnapping and related crimes.
The Edo State Government reiterated its warning to criminal elements to desist or relocate, assuring residents that sustained security operations will continue to ensure Edo State remains unsafe for crime and safe for law-abiding citizens.
