Edo security arrests six suspected kidnappers in Agbede forest after a daring night operation, showcasing strong inter-agency collaboration

Security operatives in Edo State have arrested six suspected kidnappers in the Agbede forest, Etsako West Local Government Area.

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The operation, carried out on February 3, 2026, involved personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters, the Public Relations Officer of the Edo State Police Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, confirmed.

The arrested suspects were identified as Mikel Gendaga, Yusuf Abubakar, Isyaka Abraham, Isyaka Abubakar, Mohammed Sumo, and Mohammed Abubakar.

The operation followed intelligence from a kidnapped victim who disclosed the location of the forest camp where he had been held captive.

The Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, personally led the joint team under the cover of darkness.

Operatives traversed dense forest paths, crossing wooden bridges, to reach the camp.

The tactical advance allowed for a surprise encirclement, preventing any escape and culminating in the arrest of the six suspects around 3:45 a.m.

The suspects are currently being profiled and investigated by officers of the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Benin City, for prosecution.

CP Agbonika described the operation as a decisive message to criminal elements and praised the discipline and inter-agency collaboration displayed during the raid.

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He further warned that Edo State forests will no longer serve as safe havens for criminals and urged residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.