Security operatives in Edo State have arrested three suspected kidnappers in Uromi, Esan North East Local Government Area. The suspects, identified as Asene Ogah (49), Ibhafidon Eric (29), and Ekpu Godfrey (44), were taken into custody for allegedly being involved in a series of kidnappings in the area.
During the arrest, two locally made pump-action guns were reportedly recovered from the suspects. The Commander of Edo State Security Corp, Friday Ibadin, spoke to journalists in Benin City on Friday, confirming the arrests. He explained that the operation took place on Tuesday after his team responded to a distress call from a woman in danger.
Ibadin noted that the woman, who was the target of the kidnappers, managed to hide in a bush after making the call. Security operatives quickly arrived at the scene, rescued her, and moved her to a safe location before apprehending the suspects.
He further explained that seven men were involved in the attempted abduction, but only three were caught during the operation. Efforts are ongoing to track down the remaining suspects.
The commander also stated that the arrested men had made certain confessions regarding their involvement in kidnapping activities in the area. However, he dismissed their claim of working with the police, stating, “They claimed to be working with the police, but we have not gotten any message or calls from the police in Uromi, it shows they lied.”
Ibadin confirmed that the suspects would be handed over to the police for further investigation.
