The Edo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three bouncers linked to the disturbance that occurred during the Children’s Day celebration at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, CSP Eno Ikoedem, the police also disclosed that another security operative had been taken into custody over the unlawful use of tear gas, an incident that reportedly resulted in the death of a resident.
According to the Command, investigations further led to the arrest of a woman identified as Rebecca Hassan, alleged to have supplied the pepper spray used during the incident.
The police explained that the crackdown follows growing concerns over the illegal possession and misuse of restricted security equipment such as tear gas canisters and pepper spray by private security operatives, bouncers, and vigilante groups.
It recalled that on May 25, 2026, a police officer in Benin City allegedly discharged tear gas unlawfully in the Ogida area, an action that tragically led to the loss of a life. The officer has since been arrested and subjected to both disciplinary and criminal proceedings.
Similarly, during the Children’s Day celebration on May 27, 2026, panic broke out at the stadium after private bouncers reportedly discharged pepper spray within the venue, affecting several children and other attendees.
Following investigations, the Command arrested three suspects identified as Ifeanyi John Paul (36), Ola Ibikunle (46), and Onoha Chukwuoji (33) in connection with the incident. Authorities also confirmed the arrest of Mrs. Rebecca Hassan for allegedly supplying the spray.
The Command warned that the unauthorised use or possession of such restricted security tools constitutes a criminal offence and could amount to assault or even manslaughter in severe cases.
It further cautioned private security outfits, vigilante groups, and individuals to desist from the illegal use or trade of such items, adding that anyone found culpable, whether users, sellers, or distributors, would be prosecuted.
Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, assured residents of the Command’s commitment to maintaining public peace and safety, stressing that acts capable of endangering lives would not be tolerated.
The police urged the public to cooperate with ongoing investigations as efforts continue to prevent a recurrence of such incidents in the state.