New security squad in Edo state arrests 20 suspects in anti-crime raids

A newly launched special security squad in Edo State, code-named “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,” has arrested over 20 suspects in its first major operation.

The raids, which took place on Tuesday, targeted known criminal hideouts in Isiohor, Iguosa, Oluku, and Ibiwe/Lagos Street in Benin City.

The task force was recently constituted by Governor Monday Okpebholo to combat the rising wave of cultism, kidnapping, and other violent crimes in the state.

According to John Adewale Eseikhaigbe, a member of the squad, the operation was a direct response to the recent killings that have plagued Edo State.

“The governor took it upon himself to announce to the state, nation, and the world that the killing in Edo State must stop, thereby constituting the special squad,” Eseikhaigbe said.

“The squad commenced operation on Tuesday and made several arrests, and you can see for yourself as we combed the length and breadth of the city of Benin to ensure it is safe for our people.”

The arrested individuals were reportedly found with illegal drugs, dangerous weapons, and various incriminating materials.

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Eseikhaigbe emphasized that the team’s mandate goes beyond just cultism and includes rooting out drug peddlers and kidnappers, as these crimes are often interconnected.

In addition to the arrests, a hotel in Isiohor was sealed off during the operation.

Eribo Emwanta, another member of the committee, clarified that the action was not a “witch-hunt” but a move to invite the owner for questioning, as the hotel is suspected of being a hideout for criminals.

The “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists” team is comprised of a broad range of personnel, including the military, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), hunters, vigilante groups, and even repentant cultists.

The state government has given the squad a clear mandate to bring an end to armed robbery, kidnapping, and other social vices that have tarnished the state’s reputation and posed a threat to residents and investors.