The Edo State Police Command has recorded a significant breakthrough in its fight against kidnapping following the arrest of multiple suspects linked to the abduction incident at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road in Benin City.
The operation, which stemmed from credible intelligence, led to the arrest of a 32-year-old suspect, Marvelous Isaac, during a gun duel with operatives of the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) on June 18, 2026. During the exchange, another suspect identified as Precious was neutralized.
According to a statement issued by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoadem, the operation was carried out under the directive of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, as part of intensified efforts to clamp down on criminal elements in the state.
Items recovered from the suspects include a red Lexus RX 350 SUV reportedly used in the kidnapping operation, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and a cash sum of ₦2,050,000.
Further operations conducted on June 20 led to the arrest of additional members of the syndicate identified as Gift Raphael (27), Wisdom Michael, and Rufus Michael across locations in Benin City and parts of Delta State.
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Police authorities disclosed that the suspects have made confessional statements linking them to the Vegetable Market kidnapping and other related criminal activities within the state.
Commending the operatives for their professionalism and swift response, Commissioner Agbonika reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring the safety of residents and bringing perpetrators of crime to justice.
He also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and support security agencies by providing timely and credible information that could aid ongoing investigations and crime prevention efforts.
The police assured that investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being intensified to apprehend other fleeing members of the syndicate.
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