Edo: Police arrest 77 suspects, rescue 38 kidnap victims

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, on Friday disclosed that a total of 77 suspects were arrested for various criminal offences across the state in June 2026.

The suspects include 32 alleged kidnappers, 15 suspected cultists, three suspected armed robbers, 11 murder suspects, two suspects arrested for unlawful possession of firearms, and 14 others linked to rape and other sexual and gender-based violence, including defilement.

The Commissioner of Police disclosed the achievements during the Command’s monthly media briefing describing the report as a demonstration of the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, promoting accountability and transparency in policing, and keeping residents informed about ongoing security efforts.

According to Agbonika, the Command intensified intelligence-led operations throughout the month, targeting kidnapping syndicates, cult groups, armed robbers, and other violent criminals, while strengthening collaboration with other security agencies and community based security stakeholders.

Providing a breakdown of the arrests made within the period under review, the Commissioner disclosed that 32 suspected kidnappers, 15 suspected cultists, three suspected armed robbers, 11 murder suspects, two suspects for unlawful possession of firearms, and 14 suspects linked to rape and other sexual and gender-based violence, including defilement, were apprehended during various operations.

He further announced that 38 kidnapped victims were successfully rescued through intelligence driven operations and coordinated tactical responses carried out across different parts of the state.

The Commissioner expressed appreciation to law-abiding residents of Edo State for their continued cooperation with the police.

“Security is a shared responsibility, and your collaboration continues to make the difference,” he said.