Edo State Police officers intercept suspected kidnappers during highway patrol in Igarra.
The Edo State Police Command has arrested two suspected kidnappers during a patrol along the Auchi–Igarra Highway in Edo North, authorities said on Wednesday.
In a statement, the state command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, said the suspects were identified by a vigilante member as part of a kidnapping syndicate operating in the area.
“The Edo State Police Command has recorded significant successes in the fight against kidnapping through proactive patrols and sustained intelligence-led operations in Igarra and its environs, in line with the crime-fighting strategies of the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc,” the statement said.
The suspects, identified as Muhammed Muamadu Haru, 35, and Abubakar Muhammed Haruna, 25, were arrested on 28 January 2026 at around 13:30 while stationed at a known kidnapping point along the highway.
During a joint rescue operation, the suspects tried to flee into the bush but were intercepted and detained. Investigations are ongoing, according to police.
READ ALSO
- Governor Sanwo-Olu Welcomes Kai Cenat in Lagos
- Nigeria Launches First Colorectal Cancer Immunotherapy Trial
- Israel Charges 12 Smugglers of Goods in Wartime
In a related incident on 2 February 2026, a motorcycle patrol from the Igarra Area Command foiled another kidnapping attempt along the Auchi–Igarra Express Road. Three suspected kidnappers abandoned items believed to be for criminal operations, including food, mobile phones, and jack knives, before fleeing into the forest. Bush-combing operations are underway to apprehend them.
The Commissioner of Police commended officers for their professionalism and vigilance, assuring residents of the command’s commitment to eliminating criminal networks. He urged the public to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the nearest police station or via emergency lines.
Earlier reports indicated that 13 suspected kidnappers and vandals had been arrested and three abductees rescued as part of sustained security operations across Edo State, under CP Agbonika’s directive to dismantle criminal networks and prevent safe havens for offenders.
About the Author
