Mass Arrest in Edo as Joint Security Raid Sweeps Agbede, Iruekpen

The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, has arrested 113 suspected kidnappers and collaborators during a coordinated operation in Agbede and Iruekpen communities in Edo Central Senatorial District.

The Edo State Police Command said the intelligence-driven operation was carried out in the early hours of February 26, 2026, following credible information that ransom proceeds from kidnapping activities were being received and coordinated in identified “Zango” settlements within the two communities.

According to the command, the operation was led by the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, Monday Agbonika, alongside operatives of the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups and local hunters.

Police said coordinated raids were conducted on the settlements where suspected kidnappers and their collaborators allegedly converge to receive ransom payments, regroup and blend with members of the public.

The command disclosed that 113 suspects were arrested during the operation and are currently undergoing profiling to determine their level of involvement in kidnapping and related crimes.
It added that those found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The Commissioner of Police reiterated the command’s commitment to intensifying the fight against kidnapping in the state, stressing that the ongoing operations would target not only armed elements in forests but also the financial and support networks enabling their activities.
He urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide credible information to security agencies, assuring that all intelligence would be treated confidentially.

The command reaffirmed its resolve to safeguard lives and property across the state and warned that kidnappers and their collaborators would find no hiding place in Edo.