Edo: Police Arrest 113 Suspected Kidnappers In Major Zango Crackdown

In a synchronised and intelligence-led enforcement action, operatives of the Edo State Police Command, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), vigilante groups, and local hunters, have apprehended 113 suspected kidnappers across Zango settlements in the state.

In a Thursday statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, it was revealed that the operation was carried out under the result-oriented leadership of CP Monday Agbonika, who launched a massive joint security sweep across strategic locations in Edo Central.

According to the statement, CP Agbonika, while acting on credible intelligence that ransom proceeds from kidnapping activities were being discreetly received and coordinated at identified “Zangos” in Agbede and Iruekpen, led a formidable joint task force comprising operatives of the Command, the Nigerian Army, NSCDC, vigilante groups, and local hunters in a synchronised enforcement action.

The statement reads, “Coordinated raids on the identified zango settlements in Agbede and Iruekpen were carried out where actionable intelligence indicated that suspected kidnappers and their collaborators converge to receive ransom payments, regroup, and blend with unsuspecting members of the public.

“The precision raids yielded the arrest of a total of one hundred and thirteen (113) suspects. All suspects are currently undergoing thorough profiling to ascertain their level of involvement.”

The command reaffirmed that those found culpable will be made to face the full weight of the law.

The statement further revealed that the CP Agbonika reiterated that the Command’s onslaught against kidnapping organised networks will remain relentless and uncompromising.

He emphasised that the Police will not only target armed elements in the forests but will equally intensify efforts to degrade their financial and human support systems across the State.

The CP called on residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to security agencies, assuring that all intelligence received will be treated with the highest level of confidentiality.

“The Edo State Police Command remains firm, proactive, and battle-ready to safeguard lives and property. The warning is unequivocal: there will be no sanctuary for kidnappers or their collaborators anywhere in Edo State,” the statement concluded.