Edo Police Arrest 55 Kidnappers, Rescue 58 Victims

On March 1, 2026, the Edo State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police Agbonika, arrested 55 suspected kidnappers and rescued 58 victims as part of intensified operations against violent crime in the state. The command's press briefing in Benin City detailed the arrests, which included 15 suspected cultists, eight armed robbers, and 15 murder suspects.

The police utilized drone technology and intelligence to combat kidnapping, particularly in Edo Central and Edo North Senatorial Districts. Notably, the police rescued a 14-year-old boy, Wisdom, who had been abducted on May 1, 2026.

The operations also led to the arrest of alleged kingpin Yusuf Hassan, known as Dogo Yellow, and nine gang members. The police recovered two AK-47 rifles, six pump-action guns, and seven locally made firearms during the operations.

Additionally, the command expressed concern over a rise in sexual and gender-based violence, arresting 23 suspects linked to such offenses in the last two months.