Our reporter
The newly appointed Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Umoru Peter Oziri, has unveiled an impressive list of achievements in his first week in office. At his inaugural press briefing in Benin City, CP Oziri, the 48th Commissioner to serve the State, highlighted the Command’s proactive measures to address recent criminal activities and bolster security.
Key among his recent successes was the arrest of two individuals connected to multiple criminal activities. Nosakhare Umuwagbe, aged 34, and Frank Abumere, aged 35, were apprehended by officers of the Anti-Kidnapping Unit during a stop-and-search operation along the Benin/Auchi Bypass in Iguomo Community.
Both suspects reportedly attempted to evade arrest but were captured following a brief pursuit. The men, alleged members of the Aiye cult group, were found in possession of two pump-action guns and twelve live cartridges upon a search of their residences. They now face multiple charges in court.
In another operation, the Command made arrests in connection with the abduction of Rev. Fr. Thomas Ayode from the Diocesan Minor Seminary in Agenebode.
CP Oziri confirmed that two suspects were in custody, while efforts were ongoing to secure the Reverend Father’s safe release and track down other culprits.
“The Command has responded to this unfortunate incident by reshaping security measures in collaboration with the community, including deploying a unit of the Police Mobile Force (PMF),” said CP Oziri.
The Commissioner also addressed the surge in cult-related violence in the Upper Sakponba area of Benin City, which has led to the tragic loss of innocent lives.
The Command, under his direction, has intensified security through strategic intelligence operations and ramped up vehicular and foot patrols. These efforts resulted in the arrest of a 22-year-old cultist, Suleman Abba, and the recovery of a Toyota Yaris vehicle used in cult operations.
While other gang members managed to flee with firearms, CP Oziri assured that investigations were progressing.
In a separate incident, the Commissioner detailed the swift arrest of suspects connected to a recent armed robbery. On October 23, 2024, a Benin City resident, Mr. Daramola Gabriel, reported that armed robbers had invaded his residence near One World Hotel, South-Ibie, stealing valuables worth millions of Naira. Days later, on October 26, Mr. Gabriel identified a suspect, Osakpolor Edobor, wearing his stolen diamond earring and headphones at a local park.
Police apprehended Edobor, who confessed to purchasing the items from a third party. This led to the arrest of three additional suspects: Oshoike Malik, aged 23; Aliu Rabak, aged 27; and Alor Ojo, aged 24. Authorities recovered a locally made firearm and several stolen items from the group.
CP Oziri reiterated the Edo State Police Command’s commitment to securing the lives and property of Edo residents.
“Under my leadership, we will work tirelessly to ensure the safety and peace of mind of every resident of Edo State,” he said, calling for public cooperation in providing information to aid in crime prevention and response.
He also warned criminals to desist from illegal activities, pledging that offenders will face the full weight of the law.
This early progress, CP Oziri emphasised, reflects the Command’s dedication to fostering a secure environment across Edo State through strong community collaboration and decisive law enforcement.
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