Information: A Key Element in the Fight Against Crime and Criminality

The role of information in the fight against crime and criminality in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized, as credible intelligence helps relevant security agencies tackle rising crime rates and curb criminal activities.

The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed **”Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists,”** has continued to record successes in the dangerous operations it has carried out across the state. Its mission is to combat all forms of cult-related violence and kidnapping, crimes that had previously placed Edo State in an unenviable position among states in the country.

Before the present administration led by Governor Monday Okpebholo, Edo State had been labelled by many as “the home of cultism and cult-related killings” due to the increase in cult violence, which many believed went largely unchecked.

In the past, various cult groups operated freely across streets, communities and villages, leaving behind pain, panic, fear and tears as killings became almost a regular occurrence. Consequently, Edo State was frequently in the news for the wrong reasons.

Upon assuming office on November 12, 2024, Governor Monday Okpebholo declared total war against cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes that had tarnished the image of the state.

Through the Edo State Special Security Squad, the Okpebholo administration has continued to intensify the fight against these crimes. The state has become more peaceful over the last one year and eight months, as suspected cultists and kidnappers are now aware of the consequences of their actions. While some have reportedly renounced their criminal activities, others have become more cautious, knowing the implications if apprehended.

The activities and operations of the security squad, coordinated by Noah Idemudia, are guided by professionalism and civility. Victimization is never part of its operational code. Instead, the team relies on credible intelligence and verified information before taking action, while ensuring that due process is followed and the law is respected.

Members of the squad carefully assess every piece of information received to determine its authenticity. Once intelligence is verified, they deploy strategic methods to fill in missing gaps, enabling them to identify and locate their targets before carrying out operations without bias.

In some cases, operations are executed using carefully planned strategies. The Principal Security Officer (PSO) in charge may divide the team into separate units, with one moving ahead as an advance team. The squad comprises personnel drawn from the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) and, where necessary, local hunters familiar with the terrain.

Operations are carried out with precision to ensure that suspects are apprehended while innocent persons are not wrongly targeted, in line with established rules of engagement.

Confronting kidnappers, cultists and other violent criminals is often dangerous, as many suspects are heavily armed and may engage security operatives in gun battles in an attempt to evade arrest.

The nature of the suspect and available intelligence determine the timing and scale of each operation. Some raids are conducted in the early hours of the morning, while others take place late at night. Members of the squad continually put their lives on the line to ensure Edo State is free from crime and criminality, in line with Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to tackling cultism, kidnapping and other violent crimes.

The squad has continued to record successes regardless of the difficult terrain or locations where suspects hide. Determination, courage and professionalism have remained the driving forces behind its operations.

So far, the operations have largely been successful, with no fatalities recorded among members of the squad. Those who sustained injuries in the course of operations have recovered and returned to active duty.

The cooperation of Edo residents through the provision of timely and credible information has also contributed significantly to the success of the squad since its establishment by Governor Okpebholo.

Information remains the operational lifeblood of the security squad. It has therefore appealed to members of the public to continue providing useful intelligence that will assist security agencies in identifying and apprehending criminals who live among law-abiding citizens. According to the squad, collaboration between security agencies and the public remains the surest way to keep Edo State safe.

Noah Idemudia and members of the security squad continue to work tirelessly, day and night, to ensure that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s mandate is fully implemented in line with the administration’s SHINE Agenda of protecting the lives and property of Edo people.

Today, law and order have been significantly restored across Edo State. Violent killings associated with cultism and kidnapping have reduced considerably, allowing many residents to sleep with greater peace of mind, confident that the Edo State Special Security Squad remains vigilant in safeguarding the state.