Edo Security Squad Demolishes Kidnappers’ Hideout After Arrest Of Suspects

The Edo State Special Security Squad has demolished a building allegedly used as a major operational base by kidnappers in Egbai community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area.

The development was disclosed on Sunday in a statement by Fred Ituah, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.

According to Ituah, the security operation reflects the administration’s renewed commitment to protecting residents and restoring public confidence across both rural and urban parts of the state.

The suspected kidnappers, identified as Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh, were arrested after what security officials described as a “high-level, intelligence-driven surveillance operation.”

Ituah stated that the suspects, when paraded, confessed to abducting one Blessing Nosa, for whose release they allegedly collected a ransom of ₦30 million.

Their arrest followed another incident in which they reportedly kidnapped a businessperson and demanded a ransom of ₦500 million — a move that triggered a coordinated multi-agency response and sustained tracking that eventually led to their capture.

Speaking during the demolition exercise, the Coordinator of the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, said the operation was in line with Governor Okpebholo’s directive to adopt proactive and offensive security measures that stop criminal activities before they escalate.

Idemudia maintained that the administration has zero tolerance for criminality, saying: “These individuals have been in this trade for some time, and it is deeply unfortunate. Let this serve as a clear warning: under Governor Okpebholo’s watch, Edo State is not a safe haven for kidnappers or any criminal elements.”

He assured that similar operations would be carried out across the state to dismantle criminal networks and improve public safety.

Community leaders also lauded the government’s action. The Okaighele (youth leader) of Egbai community, Aghaku Ihanuwaze, described the intervention as “courageous and long overdue,” noting that the area had long been exploited by criminal gangs. He expressed relief that the government has now taken firm steps to reclaim the community.