BENIN CITY – Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has vowed to intensify the fight against kidnapping and cult-related crimes, warning that offenders will face swift prosecution under a proposed special court system.
The governor made the remarks on Thursday at the headquarters of the Nigeria Police Force in Benin City during the parade of suspects linked to the recent kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market.
According to Okpebholo, the state government plans to establish a special court dedicated to handling kidnapping and cultism cases, with the aim of ensuring speedy trials and stronger deterrence against criminal activities.
He said the government responded immediately after Sunday’s kidnapping incident by directing security agencies to apprehend those responsible. Police investigations led to the arrest of one suspect, while another was killed during an operation. Two additional suspects are still being sought by security operatives.
The governor warned criminals and their sponsors that Edo State would no longer be a safe haven for unlawful activities, stressing that his administration remains committed to protecting lives and property across the state.
Okpebholo also defended the security efforts of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that increased support and funding for security agencies have contributed to improved results in tackling crime.
He urged residents to avoid criminal activities and embrace lawful means of livelihood, noting that crime ultimately leads to severe consequences.
As a reward for their efforts, the governor presented N10 million to the police officers involved in the arrest of the suspected kidnapper.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, said investigations were ongoing and assured residents that efforts had been intensified to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.
Items recovered from the suspect include a red Lexus RX 350 with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle and N2.25 million in cash suspected to be proceeds of crime.
Agbonika thanked Governor Okpebholo for his continued support to the command and also acknowledged the guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu. He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.
The police commissioner said intelligence supplied by members of the public remains crucial to ongoing efforts to combat kidnapping and other violent crimes in the state.