The Edo State Police Command has announced significant breakthroughs in its fight against kidnapping, with two separate operations leading to multiple arrests and the disruption of criminal networks within the state.
Suspected Kidnappers Arrested at General Hospital Auchi
In a startling turn of events, two suspected kidnappers were apprehended at the General Hospital in Auchi on Saturday. The suspects, whose identities are yet to be formally released, were recognized by security personnel while allegedly visiting a sick relative at the facility.
According to information received, the duo is believed to be involved in the recent kidnapping of Dr. Ibrahim Tahir in the Igbira Camp area of Auchi, within the Etsako West Local Government Area. The abduction was reportedly marked by tragedy, as Dr. Tahir's brother was killed during the incident before a ransom was paid to secure the doctor's release.
The suspects’ apprehension came after they were reportedly recognized at the hospital by individuals aware of the kidnapping. Hospital security was immediately alerted, leading to their detention on the premises.
A police source confirmed the incident, stating, "These individuals came to the general hospital in Auchi to visit a relative. Unknown to them, they were identified in connection with a prior crime. Security was alerted, and they were apprehended. They are currently being held as relevant security agencies have been notified."
The police have urged the public to remain calm and allow investigations to proceed, assuring that law and order are being maintained.
Police Engage Kidnappers in Ekeke Forest, Arrest One
In a separate but related development, operatives from the Ekpoma Police Division engaged suspected kidnappers in a fierce gun duel during a bush-combing operation in the early hours of Friday, February 7th.
The operation, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ekpoma, was conducted based on actionable intelligence regarding the movement of kidnappers within the Ekeke Forest axis. The police tactical team collaborated with the Edo State Security Corps, local hunters, and vigilante groups for the mission.
Upon advancing into the forest, the joint team faced armed resistance from the suspects, resulting in an exchange of gunfire. Through what the police described as "effective tactical deployment, terrain dominance, and superior maneuvering," one suspect was isolated and captured.
The arrested individual has been identified as Usman Abdulkarim, a 27-year-old male. Other members of his gang managed to escape deeper into the forest with their firearms.
A subsequent sweep of the area led to the recovery of critical exhibits:
* Three (3) mobile phones of various brands.
* Two (2) ropes, commonly used by kidnappers to restrain victims.
* A cash sum of Three Thousand Naira (₦3,000).
In a connected incident at the Era Bush axis, two other suspected kidnappers abandoned a red Boxer motorcycle with registration number USS 95 AWR and fled upon sighting advancing security operatives.
The Edo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed the operations in a press statement. "All recovered items have been secured and registered as exhibits, while the arrested suspect is currently in custody. Intensive follow-up operations and manhunt are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects and recover their firearms," the statement read.
The Command reiterated its commitment to "proactive, intelligence-driven operations aimed at ensuring the safety of lives and property across the State."
These operations mark a continued push by security forces in Edo State to dismantle kidnapping syndicates that have plagued travel routes and communities, bringing a sense of relief and demonstrating the effectiveness of collaborative security efforts.
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