Kingsley Ohens reporting 

BENIN CITY, Edo State — June 18, 2026

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has reaffirmed his administration’s uncompromising stance against violent crime, declaring that kidnappers, cultists and other criminal elements will face swift prosecution under a proposed special court, while warning that convicted offenders would face the full weight of the law.

Speaking on Thursday at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City during the parade of suspects linked to recent criminal activities, Governor Okpebholo said his government is determined to eradicate kidnapping and violent crime from the state through decisive legal and security measures.

The governor’s remarks came after security operatives arrested a suspect allegedly connected to the kidnapping incident that occurred on Sunday at the Vegetable Market in Benin City. According to him, one suspect was arrested during the operation, another was neutralised, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two other members of the gang who remain at large.

“We are going to establish a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists. Cases will be concluded within two weeks, and the law will take its full course. Let no one mistake our commitment to securing Edo State,” the governor declared.

He disclosed that immediately after receiving reports of the Vegetable Market kidnapping, he directed the Commissioner of Police to ensure the perpetrators were tracked down without delay, commending the swift response that led to the arrest.

Governor Okpebholo assured residents that no criminal would be allowed to find refuge anywhere within Edo State, stressing that security agencies have intensified surveillance and intelligence operations to dismantle criminal networks and apprehend both perpetrators and their sponsors.

He also defended the Federal Government’s security efforts, stating that the progress being recorded across the country reflects sustained support from President for security agencies through improved funding and operational backing.

The governor urged residents, particularly young people, to embrace lawful means of livelihood, noting that crime ultimately leads to devastating consequences for offenders and their families.

In recognition of their professionalism and courage, Governor Okpebholo presented a cash reward of ₦10 million to the police officers whose operation resulted in the arrest of the suspected kidnapper.

The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, confirmed that investigations remain ongoing, adding that tactical teams have intensified efforts to arrest the remaining fleeing suspects.

According to the police, exhibits recovered during the operation include a red Lexus RX 350 with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle and ₦2.25 million in cash believed to be proceeds of criminal activity.

Commissioner Agbonika expressed appreciation to Governor Okpebholo for his sustained support for security operations in Edo State and also acknowledged the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police,  pledging the command’s continued commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

He further appealed to members of the public to continue partnering with security agencies by providing timely, credible and actionable intelligence to aid ongoing efforts to combat crime.

The details of the governor’s visit and his renewed commitment to strengthening security across Edo State were made available by Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, who reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to ensure that Edo remains a safe and secure environment for residents, businesses and investors.