By Davidson Ogbebor

BENIN CITY — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, on Thursday issued a strong warning to kidnappers, cultists and other criminal elements operating in the state, declaring that his administration would pursue their prosecution and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

The governor made the remarks during a parade of suspects at the headquarters of the Edo State Police Command in Benin City, where he also rewarded police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect linked to the kidnapping incident that occurred at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road on Sunday.

Addressing the suspects and security personnel, Okpebholo said his administration was determined to rid the state of criminality through swift prosecution and enhanced collaboration with security agencies.

He disclosed plans to establish a special court to handle kidnapping and cultism-related cases in order to accelerate the judicial process and ensure offenders are brought to justice without unnecessary delays.

The governor said he immediately directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure the arrest of those responsible for the Vegetable Market kidnapping following reports of the incident.

According to him, one suspect has been arrested in connection with the crime, another was killed during a police operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two other fleeing members of the gang.

Okpebholo stressed that criminals would find no safe haven in Edo State, adding that security agencies had been placed on high alert to track down offenders and their sponsors.

He maintained that the state government would continue to support security agencies in their efforts to safeguard lives and property across Edo.

The governor also defended the Federal Government’s approach to security, saying the progress being recorded by security agencies reflects the support being provided by the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

He urged residents, particularly young people, to avoid involvement in criminal activities and instead pursue legitimate means of livelihood.

As a show of appreciation for their efforts, Governor Okpebholo presented a cash reward of N10 million to the police officers who participated in the operation that led to the arrest of the kidnapping suspect.

Speaking during the event, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, said investigations were continuing and assured residents that efforts were being intensified to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.

He disclosed that exhibits recovered from the suspect included a red Lexus RX 350 sport utility vehicle with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle and N2.25 million suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.

Agbonika thanked Governor Okpebholo for his continued support to the police command and also expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, for his leadership and guidance.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property and called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to assist security agencies in combating crime.