A joint security operation involving the Edo State Special Security Squad, Edo State Security Corps, and the Nigeria Police Force has led to the arrest of two suspected kidnappers during a raid on a forest hideout in Amah community, Etsako West Local Government Area.

The operation, coordinated by the Principal Security Officer, Saturday Okoh, commenced with the deployment of operatives from Eko-Waya community in Esan Central Local Government Area, following actionable intelligence on the activities of a suspected kidnapping syndicate.

Spokesperson of the Special Security Squad, Eribo Enwata, disclosed that the raid was carried out based on credible information linking a wanted suspect, identified simply as “Best,” to a network of kidnappers operating within the area.

“We received intelligence that a suspected mastermind, known as Best, has been coordinating kidnapping activities from a hideout within this forest,” Enwata said.

He confirmed that although the prime suspect evaded arrest, he has been declared wanted, with intensified efforts underway to apprehend him.

Items recovered from the hideout include charms and a military uniform, raising concerns about the operational tactics of the syndicate. The arrested suspects, who reportedly came from other parts of the country, told journalists they were recruited by the fleeing suspect.

Also speaking, the Zonal Commander of the Edo State Security Corps, Joel Aidamebor, alleged that the wanted suspect had been facilitating the movement of criminal elements into forest locations across Edo State.

He noted that dismantling such networks remains a key priority for the state’s security framework.

Enwata warned criminal elements to steer clear of the state or face decisive action, adding that the identified hideout would be demolished to prevent further use for illegal activities.

He further called on residents and community leaders to support security agencies with timely information, stressing that “security is a collective responsibility.”

The operation is in line with the directive of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who has maintained a zero-tolerance stance against crime and criminality across the state.