AUCHI, Edo State — Tension has escalated in Auchi, headquarters of Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State, following violent protests by youths over persistent kidnapping incidents in the area.

Reports indicate that angry youths took to the streets over the weekend to protest what they described as growing insecurity and frequent abductions in the community. During the unrest, some protesters reportedly attacked buildings and shops in parts of the Hausa quarters, accusing some residents of complicity in kidnapping activities. The situation led to the burning and destruction of several properties before security forces intervened. 

The protest comes amid increasing anxiety among residents of Auchi and surrounding communities in Edo North, where kidnapping and armed attacks have been recorded in recent months. Community members say the wave of abductions has created fear and disrupted daily activities. 

Security agencies have recently intensified operations in the area to tackle the growing security challenge. In one operation, troops of the Nigerian Army’s 4 Brigade, working with the Edo State Security Corps and local vigilantes, killed a suspected notorious kidnapper during a night patrol in the Warake forest axis near Auchi. Four kidnapped victims were rescued during the operation. 

In a separate development, the Edo State Police Command announced the arrest of 65 suspected kidnappers during a coordinated raid on hideouts in nearby Aviele. The police also recovered ransom money and military uniforms believed to have been used by the criminal gang. 

Authorities say investigations are ongoing, while security patrols have been reinforced across communities in Edo North to prevent further violence and restore normalcy. Community leaders have also appealed for calm, urging residents not to resort to mob justice while security agencies continue efforts to dismantle kidnapping networks in the region.

Observers note that the situation highlights the growing concern over rural and highway kidnappings in parts of northern Edo, prompting calls for stronger security collaboration between local communities and government authorities.