Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has warned criminals operating within the state that his administration will pursue aggressive legal action against kidnappers and cultists, including enforcing the death penalty where applicable.
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‎The governor issued the warning on Thursday while addressing police officers and suspects paraded at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City.
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‎Speaking during the event, Okpebholo disclosed plans to establish a special court dedicated to the speedy trial of kidnapping and cult-related offences. According to him, suspects found guilty through the judicial process would face the full weight of the law.
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‎He stressed that his government would not tolerate criminal activities and cautioned offenders against mistaking his calm disposition for weakness.
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‎The governor’s remarks followed the recent abduction incident at the Vegetable Market in Benin City. He revealed that immediately after receiving reports of the crime, he directed security agencies to launch a manhunt for those responsible.
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‎According to him, one suspect has been arrested, another was killed during a security operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two other members of the gang who remain on the run.
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‎Okpebholo assured residents that the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, would continue to intensify efforts to dismantle criminal networks and their sponsors.
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‎He maintained that Edo would remain hostile territory for kidnappers and other criminal elements, adding that security operatives are working around the clock to ensure the safety of residents.
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‎The governor also defended the Federal Government’s approach to tackling insecurity, arguing that the support being provided to security agencies by President Bola Tinubu’s administration is producing positive results across the country.
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‎He said recent successes recorded by law enforcement agencies demonstrate that security personnel are receiving the resources needed to carry out their duties effectively.
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‎Appealing to residents, Okpebholo urged young people and other citizens to avoid criminal activities, noting that lawful means of livelihood are preferable to engaging in crimes that could result in severe punishment.
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‎As part of efforts to encourage outstanding performance, the governor presented a cash reward of ₦10 million to the police officers involved in the arrest of the suspected kidnapper.
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‎Meanwhile, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, confirmed that investigations into the kidnapping case are continuing, with security operatives actively tracking the remaining suspects.
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‎Items recovered during the operation include a Lexus RX 350 vehicle, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and ₦2.25 million believed to be linked to criminal activities.
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‎Agbonika commended the governor for his support to the command and also acknowledged the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.
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‎He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to combating crime and urged members of the public to continue providing useful information that could aid security operations across the state.
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