The Edo State Police Command has arrested an Islamic teacher and several suspected kidnappers during an intelligence-led operation targeting criminal activities in the state.
The 52-year-old Islamic teacher, identified as Jubril Ibrahim, was paraded alongside four suspected kidnappers and six other suspects at the police command headquarters.
The Commissioner of Police, Patrick Daor, said the suspected kidnappers were apprehended in Niger State following intelligence reports that led security operatives to their location.
Ibrahim was accused of preparing charms for kidnappers operating in Edo North Senatorial District. However, the Islamic teacher denied the allegation, insisting that he only prayed for one of the suspects, Ahmadu Suleiman, after being approached by the suspect’s mother.
According to him, the prayers were meant to ensure Suleiman’s safety during his travels.
Police said Ibrahim admitted that he was aware Suleiman possessed an AK-47 rifle.
Suleiman, 24, allegedly confessed to participating in a kidnapping operation in Auchi, where victims were reportedly forced out of their homes after gunmen opened fire.
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The suspect allegedly told investigators that he received ₦1 million as his share from the operation and had worked with different criminal groups in various parts of the country.
Also paraded was a 21-year-old suspect accused of stealing a baby in Benin City, while police said a stolen vehicle was recovered during the operation.
The police spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, commended the intelligence gathering that led to the arrests and urged residents to continue providing credible information to security agencies to support ongoing efforts to tackle crime and insecurity in Edo State.
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