Table of Contents
- Arrests Overview
- Rescue Operations
- Recovered Items
- Enhanced Security Measures
- Clearance Operation
- Concerns About Morgue Disappearances
The Edo State Police Command has reported the arrest of 821 suspects for various criminal offenses in 2025.
According to DAILY POST, Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika shared this information during a press briefing while outlining the Command's achievements over the past year.
Agbonika further stated that during this period, a total of 377 kidnapping victims were rescued by the Command's operatives.
He mentioned that among the arrests made, 39 individuals were apprehended for armed robbery, 171 for kidnapping, 117 for murder, 62 for sexual assault, 239 for cultism, 36 for unlawful possession of firearms, and 157 for other offenses.
During the same period, the Command recovered 11 stolen vehicles, 188 firearms of various types, and 422 assorted ammunition.
The Commissioner also revealed that in accordance with the proactive and intelligence-driven policing strategy for the holiday season, the Command significantly enhanced security throughout the state by implementing increased visibility policing, strategic patrols, targeted stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led deployments, and ongoing community engagement.
These measures were intended to deter criminal activities, boost public confidence, and ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the festive season.
Agbonika emphasized that a key component of these efforts was the clearance operation conducted in Edo North, which he led personally, demonstrating the Command’s commitment to preventing criminal elements from accessing forests and other ungoverned areas.
“This operation received approval and strategic support from the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, who graciously authorized the deployment of a Nigeria Police helicopter and drones from the Police Air Wing. I also appreciate the assistance of His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who provided the necessary logistics for the operation,” he stated.
“The operation involved the coordinated deployment of ground troops alongside aerial assets, ensuring comprehensive operational coverage.”
“The clearance operation, which took place from Saturday, December 14 to Saturday, December 20, 2025, will continue. It was executed through strong inter-agency collaboration involving the Nigerian Army Mechanized 4 Brigade, NAF 107 Air Maritime Group, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Forest Guards, local Vigilante groups, and hunters.”
“This joint approach highlights our collective determination to confront and neutralize security threats in the state decisively,” the CP stated.
Agbonika also warned the public about the alarming trend of corpses disappearing from certain morgues within Edo State.
He noted that such actions are criminal, inhumane, and a severe violation of the sensitivities of the bereaved, assuring the public that anyone found responsible will face the full extent of the law.
He advised families and those requiring mortuary services to use government-owned facilities where proper oversight and accountability are assured.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of crimes led to the arrests in Edo State?
The arrests included individuals apprehended for armed robbery, kidnapping, murder, sexual assault, cultism, unlawful possession of firearms, and various other offenses.
How many kidnapping victims were rescued by the police?
A total of 377 kidnapping victims were rescued by the operatives of the Command during the reported period.
What measures were taken for security during the festive season?
The police enhanced security through increased visibility policing, strategic patrols, targeted stop-and-search operations, intelligence-led deployments, and community engagement.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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