Military Raids Ahor, Uselu-Nahor, Arrests Four Suspected Kidnappers

The 4 Brigade Command of the Nigerian Army, Benin City, has intensified its operations against kidnapping and other criminal activities along the Ahor and Uselu-Nahor axis of Uhunmwonde Local Government Area, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers in a coordinated raid.

Parading the suspects at the Brigade Headquarters, the Operation Officer, Captain Victor Adebanjo Omotosho, said the troops carried out a “cordon and search operation” in the early hours of Sunday, November 16, 2025, following rising concerns over persistent kidnapping incidents in the area.

According to him, the operation led to the recovery of an AK-47 rifle, an AK-47 magazine, a pump-action gun, and other dangerous items. Two vehicles, a Toyota Camry and a Toyota Highlander, were also seized during the exercise.

Captain Omotosho described the arrests as a major breakthrough in ongoing efforts to curb criminal activities along the affected corridors. He noted that the Brigade, working with other security agencies, remains committed to restoring safety in communities within the region.

Despite the arrests the suspects denied involvement in kidnapping, Frank Anthony claimed he was asleep in the house where he was staying when soldiers arrived, Endurance Egwasa, a resident of Ahor said he was at home with his partner when he was picked up.

Sunday Alex stated he had only attended a burial and slept at his family house.Stanley Osazuwa, who identified himself as a painter, said he rented a room after attending a late burial.

The Army maintained that the operation is part of a wider strategy to dismantle criminal networks operating in and around Ahor, Uselu-Nahor, and neighbouring communities.

Security agencies in the state have also increased joint patrols to secure major highways and rural areas affected by repeated attacks.

The Brigade assured the public that similar operations will continue until kidnapping and other violent crimes are significantly reduced.

The Edo State Government has likewise reiterated its commitment to supporting military and security formations in maintaining peace across the state.