The Edo State Police Command has arrested 113 suspected kidnappers during a major intelligence-driven operation in Edo North and Edo Central on Thursday, February 26, 2026.
In a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the raids targeted “Zangos” (settlements) in Agbede and Iruekpen, where credible intelligence indicated that suspected kidnappers and collaborators converged to receive ransom payments, regroup, and blend with the public.
The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, personally led a joint task force comprising operatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, vigilante groups, and local hunters.
The statement read in part:
“Acting on credible intelligence that ransom proceeds from kidnapping activities were being discreetly received and coordinated at identified ‘Zangos’ in Agbede and Iruekpen, the Commissioner of Police personally led a formidable joint task force… in a synchronised enforcement action.
“The raids yielded the arrest of 113 suspects. All suspects are currently undergoing thorough profiling to ascertain their level of involvement.”
Those found culpable will face the full weight of the law, the police warned.
CP Agbonika reiterated that the Command’s onslaught against organised kidnapping networks would remain relentless and uncompromising, targeting not only armed elements in the forests but also their financial and human support systems across the state.
He urged residents to remain vigilant, provide timely and credible information to security agencies, and assured that all intelligence would be treated with the highest confidentiality.
The operation comes amid rising concerns over kidnapping and banditry in parts of Edo State. Recently, gunmen killed a high-ranking palace chief in Iduah Kingdom, Esan West Local Government Area, and abducted two of his daughters at his residence on Monday night.
The victim, Chief Jimah Jacob Ogboi, was shot at close range, while his wife was seriously injured with machetes and other weapons.
One of the deceased’s sons, Lucky, said he had stepped out to purchase an item when the attack occurred.
The arrests mark a significant blow to kidnapping syndicates in the state, with the police vowing sustained efforts to restore safety and security for residents.
