Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has issued a stern warning to criminals operating within the state, declaring that individuals found guilty of serious crimes such as kidnapping and cultism will face swift prosecution and, where applicable, the death penalty.
The governor made the remarks on Thursday while addressing journalists during a parade of suspects at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City. The event also featured the recognition of police officers involved in the arrest of a suspect linked to a recent kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market.
According to Okpebholo, the state government plans to establish a special court dedicated to the speedy trial of kidnapping and cult-related offences.
“We are going to set up a special court to prosecute kidnappers and cultists. Within two weeks, the court will conclude proceedings. I will sign your execution warrant. We will take you to Ring Road so Edo people can see. I will have no regret about it. Don’t take my simplicity for granted,” the governor stated.
He explained that following Sunday's kidnapping incident, he immediately directed security agencies to track down those responsible. The operation led to the arrest of one suspect, while another was killed during the encounter. Two additional suspects are still being sought by authorities.
Sending a strong message to criminal elements, the governor stressed that Edo State would no longer be a safe haven for criminals.
“They will never find peace in Edo. The message is clear: anyone who commits a crime in this state will be arrested and brought to justice. We are prepared for both the criminals and those sponsoring them. We are working tirelessly to ensure Edo remains safe,” he said.
Okpebholo also defended the security efforts of the Federal Government, attributing recent successes in crime-fighting to the support provided by President Bola Tinubu's administration.
“I wonder why some people keep saying the president is not working. The president is providing the necessary support for security agencies to perform effectively. The results we are seeing today speak for themselves,” he added.
The governor urged residents to avoid criminal activities, noting that honest living is far preferable to risking one's life through unlawful conduct.
As part of efforts to encourage security personnel, Okpebholo presented a cash reward of ₦10 million to the police officers who participated in the successful operation that led to the arrest of the kidnapping suspect.
Meanwhile, Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that efforts have been intensified to apprehend the remaining members of the gang.
Items recovered from the suspect include a red Lexus RX 350 with registration number EKP 848 AE, a pump-action shotgun, two live cartridges, a motorcycle, and ₦2.25 million in cash believed to be proceeds of criminal activities.
Agbonika expressed appreciation to Governor Okpebholo for his continued support of the police command and also commended Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu for his leadership and guidance. He reaffirmed the command's commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
The police commissioner further appealed to residents to continue providing timely and credible information that could assist security agencies in combating crime.
