The Edo State Police Command says it has arrested several suspected kidnappers in Ekpoma after carrying out a major overhaul of the town’s divisional police headquarters. The move follows days of public outrage over repeated abductions and a protest that turned violent at the weekend.
Police Commissioner Monday Agbonika ordered the redeployment of the Divisional Police Officer and other key personnel at the Ekpoma Division as part of efforts to rebuild public trust. He also directed intensified intelligence led operations and patrols to dismantle kidnapping networks in Esan West and other parts of Edo State.
The command said new tactical teams have been stationed in identified flashpoints, while plainclothes operatives are tracking gangs linked to recent abductions captured on CCTV. Residents were urged to share credible information and assured that reports of extortion or misconduct by police officers would be investigated.
Agbonika noted that the protest over insecurity was initially peaceful but was later hijacked by hoodlums who engaged in vandalism and looting. He promised that the command would balance firm law enforcement with respect for citizens’ rights, while working with community leaders and students to restore calm.
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