Edo special security squad dismantles kidnappers’ hideouts, arrests suspects

Edo State’s fight against violent crime took a major step forward over the weekend as the Edo State Special Security Squad demolished a property used as a major operational base by kidnappers in Egbai community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.

The operation, part of Governor Monday Okpebholo’s intensified security drive, led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers, Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh, following what authorities described as “high-level, intelligence-driven surveillance.”

The suspects confessed to abducting a woman named Blessing Nosa, for whose release a ransom of ₦30 million was collected.

They were also implicated in the kidnapping of another businessperson, demanding a ₦500 million ransom—an act that triggered a multi-agency pursuit culminating in their arrest.

Speaking at the demolition site, Coordinator of the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, said the operation reflected the administration’s offensive security strategy aimed at preventing crime before it escalates.

He emphasized that the state will not be a safe haven for kidnappers or criminal networks.

Community leaders welcomed the operation, with Aghaku Ihanuwaze, Okaighele (youth leader) of Egbai community, commending Governor Okpebholo for the intervention. Ihanuwaze described the demolished hideout as a long-standing source of fear in the area and praised the government for restoring safety.

The demolition forms part of Governor Okpebholo’s broader security reforms under the SHINE Agenda, which include strengthened rural surveillance, enhanced community intelligence networks, and improved inter-agency coordination.

Officials said such operations will continue across the state to disrupt criminal activities and ensure public safety.