The Edo State Police Command has recorded fresh successes in its campaign against kidnapping, following the arrest of suspected kidnappers and the foiling of an attempted abduction in Igarra and surrounding areas.
Confirming the report, Police Public Relations Officer, Edo State Command, ASP Eno Ikoedem said the breakthroughs were achieved through proactive patrols and sustained intelligence-led operations in line with the crime-fighting strategies of the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc.
According to the Command, operatives of the Igarra Area Command on January 28, 2026, at about 1:30 p.m., arrested two suspected kidnappers along the Auchi–Igarra Highway. The suspects were identified as Muhammed Muamadu Haru, 35, and Abubakar Muhammed Haruna, 25.
Police said the suspects were recognised by a vigilante member as part of a kidnapping syndicate earlier encountered during a joint bush-combing rescue operation that involved a gun duel. Upon being identified, the suspects reportedly attempted to flee into the bush but were intercepted and arrested by the operatives. Investigation into the matter is ongoing.
In a related operation on February 2, 2026, at about 5:00 p.m., a motorcycle patrol convoy from the Igarra Area Command foiled a kidnapping attempt along the Auchi–Igarra Express Road. The patrol team intercepted three suspected kidnappers who were allegedly about to block the road.
The suspects reportedly escaped into a nearby forest after a hot pursuit, abandoning items believed to be logistics for criminal activities. These included food items, mobile phones, jack knives and other personal effects. Police said sustained bush-combing operations are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects.
The Commissioner of Police commended the officers involved for their vigilance and professionalism, reaffirming the Command’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements.
The Police also urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious persons or activities to the nearest police station or through the Command’s emergency and complaint response lines.
