Police Bust Kidnapping Syndicate in Edo, Arrest 6, Recover Weapons
The Edo State Police Command have intensified efforts to combat the rising wave of kidnappings, leading to the arrest of six suspects and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and a large sum of cash believed to be ransom proceeds.
The operatives of the Command carried out multiple successful operations across Edo North—an area that has recently witnessed a surge in abductions and violent crimes.
According to a statement by the police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, the first major breakthrough came on March 16, 2025, at around 4:30 a.m. when officers from the Agbede Police Division, in conjunction with vigilante personnel, intercepted three young men at a checkpoint in Aviele along Abumere by Power Line. The suspects, identified as Jamilu Idris (20), Usman Shuaibu (24), and Yahuza Usman (20), were found in possession of an English-made Beretta pistol, a dagger, and an Infinix phone.
“Preliminary investigations indicate that these individuals are part of a criminal syndicate responsible for kidnappings, armed robbery, and motorcycle snatching in the region,” Yamu stated, adding that efforts are underway to apprehend other members of the gang.
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Later that same day, at approximately 10:10 p.m., police operatives from the Auchi Division, supported by vigilantes, intercepted two men at a routine checkpoint near UBA Junction in Auchi. The suspects attempted to flee but were pursued, leading to the arrest of Adamu Usman of Hausa Quarters. His accomplice, however, managed to escape.
An on-the-spot search of the suspect led to the recovery of ₦1,345,100 in cash—suspected to be ransom money—along with five micro SIM cards, a machete, a dagger, two mobile phones, and a pack of cigarettes.
Further investigations led to the arrest of two additional suspects, Iliyasu Abubakar (19) and Safiyanu Mohammed (20). One of the SIM cards was traced to a recent kidnap victim, Ajibola Sunday, who was abducted alongside his mother-in-law on March 11, 2025. Upon being invited to the police station, Sunday identified the suspect as part of the eight-man gang that had abducted him and extorted ₦10 million for their release.
Edo State Commissioner of Police, Betty Otimenyin, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring justice. She urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by reporting suspicious activities.
The police are currently tracking other members of the syndicate, as investigations continue.
By PRNigeria
