Our reporter
The Edo State Police Command has made significant strides in its ongoing efforts to combat crime and ensure the safety of residents. Over the past 48 hours, the Command’s operatives have arrested multiple suspects linked to armed robbery and kidnapping, recovering firearms and other incriminating items.
In a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, CSP Moses Yamu, the recent operations resulted in the capture of several criminals and the recovery of weapons and stolen property.
On 16 March 2024, at approximately 4:30 a.m., officers from the Agbede Police Division, in collaboration with local vigilantes, apprehended three suspects during a stop-and-search operation at Aviele, along Abumere by Power Line.
The suspects, identified as Jamilu Idris (20), Usman Shuaibu (24), and Yahuza Usman (20), were found in possession of an English-made Beretta pistol, a dagger, and an Infinix phone. Preliminary investigations revealed that the trio are part of a criminal syndicate responsible for a spate of kidnappings and motorcycle thefts in the area. Efforts are underway to track down other members of the group.
Later the same day, at around 10:10 p.m., operatives from the Auchi Division, working with vigilante personnel, intercepted two young men during a stop-and-search at the UBA Junction in Auchi.
The suspects attempted to flee upon sighting the police, but one, identified as Adamu Usman of Hausa Quarters, was swiftly apprehended, while his accomplice managed to escape. A search of the suspect uncovered ₦1,345,100 in cash, suspected to be proceeds of kidnapping, along with five micro SIM cards, a machete, a dagger, two mobile phones, and a pack of cigarettes.
Further investigation led to the arrest of two additional suspects, Iliyasu Abubakar (19) and Safiyanu Mohammed (20). One of the recovered SIM cards was traced to a victim, Ajibola Sunday, from Igbirra Camp in Auchi. When invited to the station, Sunday identified Usman as a member of the gang that had kidnapped him and his mother-in-law on 11 March 2025. The family was reportedly forced to pay ₦10 million to secure their release.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Betty Enekpen Isokpan Otimenyin, reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to tackling crime and protecting the lives and property of Edo State residents. She assured the public that the police will continue to pursue and prosecute criminal elements operating in the state.
The Edo State Police Command encourages citizens to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
