Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested a suspect and recovered thirty-six rounds of live cartridges during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin City.
The suspect, identified as Richard Gabriel, 36, from Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, was apprehended by officers attached to the Ikpoba Hill Area Command along the Benin–Auchi Road.
According to the Command, the operation took place on May 23, 2026, at about 1pm, when officers on stop-and-search duty at Guobadia Junction intercepted a mini bus conveying seven passengers from the Benin–Auchi Bypass to Ring Road, Benin City.
Police said tension rose during the operation after three male passengers suddenly abandoned their bags and attempted to flee the scene.
The officers reportedly gave the fleeing suspects a hot chase and successfully arrested one of them, while others escaped.
Further details obtained by this online newspaper revealed that a search conducted on the suspect’s bag led to the recovery of thirty-six live cartridges carefully concealed inside.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the vigilance, professionalism, and swift response of the officers involved in the operation.
He reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of lives and property across the state.
The Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.
9jbd7d