The Edo State Government has announced the arrest of an alleged kingpin of a kidnapping syndicate linked to several abduction cases in Uromi and neighbouring communities, as part of its intensified crackdown on kidnapping, cultism and other criminal activities across the state.

The suspect, identified as Christian Okoduwa, is currently in police custody in Benin City, while his residence located on Thursday Street, off Amedokhian Road, Uromi, has been demolished following investigations and intelligence reports by security agencies.

The Secretary of the Edo State Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists, Barrister John Izegaegbe, disclosed this during an operation in Uromi.

According to Izegaegbe, investigations allegedly linked Okoduwa to a network involved in coordinating kidnapping activities in the area.

He alleged that the suspect recruited and brought criminal elements from neighbouring states and communities into Uromi to carry out kidnapping operations.

“This building behind me, which has been demolished, belongs to one Christian Okoduwa, who has been linked to a chain of kidnapping activities in Uromi. Investigations indicate that he allegedly brought criminal elements from neighbouring states and communities into the area to engage in kidnapping,” Izegaegbe said.

He further alleged that several suspects arrested in connection with kidnapping incidents in Uromi and its environs had linked Okoduwa and members of his syndicate to the crimes.

“All arrests made in Uromi and its environs have allegedly been traced to him and his syndicate, who have been terrorising residents. Investigations revealed that he played a central role in some of the most serious kidnapping incidents recorded in the area,” he added.

Izegaegbe explained that the demolition of the building was carried out in line with the state government’s policy against the use of properties for criminal activities.

“This demolition is the result of alleged kidnapping activities linked to the property. Any building found to have been used for such criminal purposes will be demolished in accordance with the law and government directives,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to combating crime and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.

“The government is determined to rid Edo State of criminal elements. Those found engaging in kidnapping, cultism and other crimes will face the full weight of the law,” he stated.

Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State