The Edo State Police Command has recorded a major breakthrough in the investigation of the kidnapping incident that occurred at the popular Vegetable Market off Airport Road, Benin City, leading to the arrest of four suspected members of a notorious kidnapping syndicate.
The Command disclosed that the operation, carried out by operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT), was launched following directives from the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, and was driven by credible intelligence.
According to the police, the first breakthrough came on June 18, 2026, when operatives engaged members of the gang in a gun duel, leading to the arrest of 32-year-old Marvelous Isaac, while another suspect identified simply as Precious was neutralised during the exchange.
Items recovered from the suspects included a Lexus RX 350 SUV with registration number EKP 848 AE, allegedly used in carrying out the kidnapping operation, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a cash sum of N2.05 million and a motorcycle.
The police said further investigations led to a series of follow-up operations on June 20, during which additional members of the criminal network were apprehended.
Those arrested include Gift Raphael, 27, as well as Wisdom Michael and Rufus Michael, who were tracked down in separate operations conducted within Benin City and parts of neighbouring Delta State.
According to the Command, all the suspects have made confessional statements linking themselves to the Vegetable Market kidnapping incident and several other criminal activities across Edo State.
The latest arrests are expected to provide investigators with crucial leads into the activities of organised kidnapping syndicates operating within the state.
Commending the operatives for their professionalism, courage and swift response, Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika assured residents that the Command remains committed to dismantling criminal networks and bringing all perpetrators to justice.
He reiterated that the Edo State Police Command would not relent in its efforts to rid the state of kidnappers, armed robbers and other violent criminals threatening public safety.
The police chief also appealed to members of the public to continue supporting law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information, stressing that community collaboration remains vital in the fight against crime.
Further details obtained by this online newspaper indicate that investigations are ongoing as police intensify efforts to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate and uncover the full extent of their criminal operations.
The statement was signed by the Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikedem.
