The Edo State Taskforce has dismantled a three-man kidnapping syndicate and rescued a young woman during an operation along the Aduwawa axis of Benin City, in a development seen as part of ongoing efforts to address prevailing security challenges in parts of the state.

The suspects—identified as James Ehigator from Uromi, Esan North-East Local Government Area; Atiku Muhammad from Suleja, Niger State; and Osas Iwagbonsoria from Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area—were arrested during a routine patrol while conveying the victim in an Audi vehicle with registration number EPE 427 GS.

Speaking to journalists in Benin City, the Commissioner for Security and Public Safety, Hon. Festus Ebea, said the arrest underscored the determination of the administration of Governor Monday Okpebholo to confront insecurity head-on and dismantle criminal networks operating within Edo State.

Ebea noted that the state, like several others across the country, has faced security challenges including kidnapping, armed robbery and cult-related violence, adding that the government has intensified coordinated security operations to protect lives and property.

He disclosed that Governor Okpebholo has directed all security agencies operating in the state, including the Edo State Security Corps, to strengthen collaboration, deepen intelligence sharing and deploy modern surveillance tools to proactively detect and prevent crime, particularly in identified flashpoints.

According to the Commissioner, the state government has continued to provide logistical and operational support to security agencies, including enhanced patrols and intelligence-driven operations, to reassure residents and maintain public safety, especially during the festive season.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious, cautioning members of the public against engaging with strangers who may feign distress or seek assistance as a tactic to lure unsuspecting victims.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the Taskforce acted on intelligence reports concerning suspicious movements around the Upper Mission Extension area of Benin City. Upon intercepting the vehicle, operatives recovered items suspected to be linked to the syndicate’s criminal activities.

The suspects, according to authorities, are currently undergoing profiling and will be handed over to the appropriate security agencies for further investigation and prosecution in line with the law.

The rescued victim, who requested anonymity, narrated that she was on her way to visit her elder sister when one of the suspects approached her under the pretext of seeking directions, after which she was allegedly deceived into entering the vehicle.

Commander of the Edo State Taskforce, CSP Michael Anetor, explained that operatives became suspicious during a routine patrol, stopped the vehicle for a search and observed inconsistencies in the occupants’ responses, leading to further investigation and the eventual arrest.

He described the operation as a significant boost to the state’s ongoing fight against kidnapping and other violent crimes, stressing that sustained security operations would continue.

The Edo State Government reiterated its warning to criminal elements to desist from unlawful activities or face the full weight of the law, assuring residents that proactive measures remain in place to tackle insecurity and ensure Edo State is safe for law-abiding citizens.