Emmanuel Obi
Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced plans to establish a special court to fast-track the prosecution of kidnappers and cultists, warning that convicted offenders would face the full weight of the law.
The governor made the declaration on Thursday while addressing police officers and suspects paraded at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City following the arrest of a suspected kidnapper linked to the abduction incident at the Vegetable Market on Sunday.
Okpebholo said the proposed court would ensure speedy trials for kidnapping and cult-related offences, stressing that his administration would not tolerate criminal activities in the state. He warned that those found guilty would face severe legal consequences, adding that criminals should not mistake his calm disposition for weakness.
The governor disclosed that he immediately directed security agencies to track down those responsible for the kidnapping after receiving reports of the incident.
According to him, one suspect was arrested, another was killed during the operation, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend two others still on the run.
He assured residents that his administration remains committed to rooting out criminal elements and their sponsors, noting that security agencies are working around the clock to make Edo State safer.
Okpebholo also defended the Federal Government’s efforts in tackling insecurity, stating that the support being provided to security agencies by President Bola Tinubu’s administration is yielding positive results across the country.
He urged residents to avoid involvement in criminal activities, maintaining that honest living is far more rewarding than engaging in crimes that could lead to severe punishment.
As part of efforts to encourage security personnel, the governor presented a cash reward of ₦10 million to the police officers involved in the arrest of the suspected kidnapper.
The Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, said investigations into the case are ongoing and that security operatives are intensifying efforts to arrest the remaining suspects.
Items recovered from the arrested 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 believed to be proceeds of criminal activities.
Agbonika thanked the governor for his support to the command and also appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, for his leadership, assuring residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.
He further appealed to members of the public to continue providing useful and timely information that would aid security operations across the state.
