The Edo State Police Command has recorded another operational breakthrough following the recovery of 36 rounds of live cartridges and the arrest of a suspect during a routine stop-and-search operation in Benin City.
The incident occurred on May 23, 2026, at about 1:00 p.m., when officers attached to the Ikpoba Hill Area Command, while on stop-and-search duty at Guobadia Junction along the Benin–Auchi Road, intercepted a mini bus carrying seven passengers from the Benin–Auchi Bypass to Ring Road, Benin City.
Police said that during the operation, three male passengers suddenly abandoned their belongings and attempted to flee the scene. The officers immediately pursued the fleeing suspects and successfully arrested one identified as Richard Gabriel, 36, from Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State.
A search conducted on the suspect’s bag led to the recovery of 36 rounds of live cartridges concealed inside.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, commended the vigilance and professionalism of the officers involved in the operation and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to combating crime and protecting lives and property across the state.
The Police Command also assured residents of continued efforts to rid the state of criminal elements and maintain public safety.
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