The Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad (CG’s SIS) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has arrested 70 suspects in connection with kidnapping, rape, illegal mining, and other criminal activities in Okpella, Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.
Commandant of the squad, Apollo Dandaura, disclosed this while briefing journalists on the outcome of an extensive clearance operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks terrorising communities in the area.
He explained that the operation followed a directive from the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, who ordered an intensified onslaught against criminal elements responsible for the killing of eight security personnel attached to BUA Cement Company last month.
According to Dandaura, the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, working jointly with the Nigerian Army and the management of BUA International Cement, led by Mr. Richard Gidado, launched coordinated raids on hideouts used by kidnappers masquerading as illegal miners and charcoal vendors. “During the clearance operation, our team uncovered and dismantled several criminal hideouts used for holding kidnapped victims. While some suspects escaped, we successfully rescued victims, including Mrs. Agbe Martha, who had been in captivity for over seven days,” Dandaura said.
Recounting her ordeal, Mrs. Agbe Martha narrated that she and her sister-in-law were abducted by five armed men while working on their rice farm in the Ichoke area of Itsukwi community. The kidnappers demanded a ₦30 million ransom for their release and subjected them to torture throughout their captivity.
Upon their rescue, the victims were reunited with their families amid jubilation. The paramount ruler of Itsukwi Kingdom, His Royal Highness Usman Suleiman, Ogei-Ochi III, commended the NSCDC for restoring peace and confidence in the community.
Commandant Dandaura assured that all suspects will face thorough investigation and prosecution, reiterating the NSCDC’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property in Edo State and across the country. “This operation underscores the unwavering resolve of the Corps under the leadership of Prof. Audi to combat crime and ensure peace and stability nationwide,” he added.
