The Edo State Police Command says it has recorded major breakthroughs in ongoing operations against kidnapping, cultism, and armed robbery, arresting several suspects and killing one during armed encounters across the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, SP Moses Yamu, revealed the developments in a statement on Thursday, noting that the successes were recorded between 15 and 26 November 2025.
He said the coordinated raids were part of a renewed offensive aimed at “flushing out criminal networks and restoring safety to communities across Edo.”
According to him, “The Edo State Police Command has intensified its onslaught against violent criminals. These operations have resulted in notable arrests, the recovery of firearms, and the rescue of kidnap victims.
Yamu disclosed that on November 15, operatives of the Uromi Division stormed a private hospital in Uromi and arrested seven suspected members of the Eiye Confraternity, who were reportedly meeting to plan a retaliatory attack against rival cult members.
“The suspects were apprehended while holding a secret strategy meeting. A battleaxe and various cult paraphernalia were recovered,” he said.
The move followed a violent clash a day earlier between a man identified as I Dey Chop, believed to be an Eiye member, and an Aye confraternity member, Asuelimen Saviour. Both men sustained injuries. Saviour was later arrested on November 16.
The police spokesman added that fresh raids on November 23 led to the arrest of four more suspected cultists. They were identified as Godspower Ehihanor, Miracle Akhigbe, Miracle Kasheka, and Honest Idemudia.
“During interrogation, Ehihanor confessed to being a member of the Aye Confraternity,” Yamu stated.
Two days later, on November 25, two young women were intercepted while transporting a pump-action shotgun and five cartridges hidden in a sack. Yamu said the suspects, Believe Ehinor (18) and Ofoma Sofia (19), confessed that the weapon belonged to one Peace Ehinor, who escaped during an earlier raid.
“All the suspects have been arraigned in court, while manhunt for fleeing accomplices continues,” he added.
Yamu further revealed that operatives arrested one Usman Shagari of Ubiaja, believed to be involved in the kidnapping of Daniel Okoekhian and his wife on November 22. He said investigations into the case were progressing.
Also on November 22, officers of the Egba Division rescued two abducted victims — Uwa Greg and Airen Osahimwian — during a bush-combing operation in Ugha Forest. The rescue followed a gun battle that forced the kidnappers to abandon their captives.
“The victims, kidnapped on November 20, were taken for immediate medical care and have since reunited with their families,” he said.
In another operation, the DPO of Ikpoba Hill Division led officers and vigilantes to the Ohovbe area following a distress call about an ongoing armed robbery. A shootout ensued.
“One unidentified armed robber was neutralised while others escaped into the bush,” Yamu confirmed.
Recovered items included a Toyota Corolla (BEN 149 BC), four mobile phones, improvised explosive devices, and charms.
Yamu said the command will not relent in its efforts to rid Edo State of criminals, urging residents to remain vigilant and provide credible information to security agencies.
“We are committed to safeguarding lives and property. Criminals should know that Edo is no hiding place,” he warned.
He added that Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika had directed tighter collaboration with other security agencies to sustain the pressure on criminal syndicates.
