“We Will Collaborate with Sister Security Agencies to Make Edo Safe” – Commander Ibadin
The Edo State Security Corps has arrested three men suspected of kidnapping in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area of Edo State. The arrests followed numerous complaints from residents about the rising cases of abductions in the region. Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, retired Commissioner of Police Friday Ibadin, confirmed the arrests.
He explained that his team acted swiftly after receiving a distress call from a woman who hid in the bush to escape her kidnappers. “She called us from her hiding place in Uromi, and we mobilized immediately,” Ibadin said. “Our men rescued her, kept her in a safe place, and upon her identification of the suspects, we arrested three out of the seven men who attempted to abduct her.”
He warned criminals operating in Edo State, saying, “Edo will be too hot for them unless they relocate.” Victim Alleges Group’s Involvement in Rising Kidnappings
The victim, identified as Mrs. Ufuha Rita, recounted her ordeal, alleging that her attempted abduction was orchestrated by a group known as the Esan Awareness Group, reportedly created by one Mr. Bruce, who resides in Sweden. “Since this group was formed, kidnapping and other criminal activities have increased in Uromi,” she said. “I advised their leader, and now they want to kidnap me.” She expressed gratitude to the Edo State Security Corps for saving her life and called on security agencies to protect her from further threats.
Suspects Confess, Arms Recovered
The three suspects arrested were identified as: Asene Ogah, 49 years old, Ibhafidon Eric, 29 years old, Ekpu Godfrey, 44 years old.
One of the suspects, Ekpu Godfrey, admitted to previous involvement in kidnappings but claimed he was no longer part of such activities. Security operatives recovered two locally made pump-action guns from the suspects.
Commander Ibadin emphasized that the security corps has fulfilled its role by arresting the suspects and would hand them over to the police for further investigation.
“Those arrested have made confessions about their past criminal activities. We will now transfer them to the police, who will continue the investigation,” he stated.
He also dismissed claims that the Esan Awareness Group was working with the police, stating that no official message or request had been received from law enforcement regarding their activities. “There is a law backing the Edo State Security Corps, and any security outfit operating in the state must be officially approved.
The so-called security body created by Mr. Bruce is illegal,” Ibadin asserted.The investigation continues as authorities work to track down the remaining suspects.
