The Edo State Police Command has made significant breakthroughs in its fight against crime, arrested multiple suspects linked to armed robbery and kidnapping across the state. Within the last 48 hours, operatives of the Command carried out successful operations, leading to the recovery of firearms, cash, and other incriminating items.
According to a release signed by the Police Public Relations Officer ,Edo State Police Command, CSP Moses Joel Yamu, the arrests were made during separate operations conducted by police operatives in collaboration with vigilante groups.
The statement revealed that on March 16, 2025, at about 4:30 am, a joint operation by officers of the Agbede Police Division and local vigilante personnel led to the arrest of three suspected criminals during a stop-and-search exercise in Aviele along Abumere by the power line. The suspects, identified as Jamilu Idris (20), Usman Shuaibu (24), and Yahuza Usman (20), were found in possession of one English-made Beretta pistol, a dagger, and an Infinix phone.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the trio belonged to a notorious syndicate involved in armed robbery and kidnapping, particularly targeting motorcycle riders in the area. The police have intensified efforts to apprehend other members of the gang.
The statement further disclosed that on March 16, 2025, at about 10:10 pm, operatives of the Auchi Police Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes, intercepted two young men at UBA Junction, Auchi. On sighting the police, the suspects attempted to flee, prompting a hot chase. One of them, Adamu Usman of Hausa Quarters, was arrested, while his accomplice managed to escape.
A search on the suspect led to the recovery of ₦1,345,100 in cash, believed to be proceeds of kidnapping, five micro SIM cards, a machete, a dagger, two mobile phones, and a pack of cigarettes.
Further investigations led to the arrest of Iliyasu Abubakar (19) and Safiyanu Mohammed (20). One of the recovered SIM cards was traced to a victim, Ajibola Sunday of Igbirra Camp, Auchi.
Upon invitation to the police station, Ajibola Sunday identified the suspect as part of an eight-man gang that kidnapped him and his mother-in-law on March 11, 2025. The victims were only released after their relatives paid a ransom of ₦10 million.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, reassured residents of Edo State of the Command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property. She emphasized that all suspects will be thoroughly investigated and prosecuted accordingly.
Meanwhile, the police have intensified efforts to apprehend fleeing suspects and dismantle criminal networks operating in the state.
