Edo State’s Special Security Squad has dismantled a property used as a major operational base by kidnappers and arrested two suspects, in what the government calls a “decisive victory” in its fight against crime.
The suspects, Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh, were arrested in the Egbai community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, following what was described as “high-level, intelligence-driven surveillance.”
In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Owaen Fred Itua, the government said the duo confessed to the abduction of one Blessing Nosa, for whose release a ransom of ₦30 million was collected.
Authorities stated that the suspects sealed their fate after allegedly abducting another business person and making a ransom demand of ₦500 million. This act triggered an expanded multi-agency response and sustained tracking that led to their capture.
Speaking at the demolition site, the Coordinator of the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, provided an overview of the operation. He noted that the dismantling of the hideout was aligned with Governor Okpebholo’s directive to adopt offensive security tactics that prevent crime before it festers.
Idemudia stressed that the administration’s stance on criminality remains uncompromising.
“These individuals have been in this trade for some time, and it is deeply unfortunate,” he said. “Let this serve as a clear warning: under Governor Okpebholo’s watch, Edo State is not a safe haven for kidnappers or any criminal elements.”
He added that similar operations will continue across the State to ensure that criminal networks are systematically disrupted and eliminated.
The action has been welcomed by local community leaders, who said the area had been plagued by criminal activity for years.
The Okaighele, or youth leader, of Egbai community, Aghaku Ihanuwaze, commended Governor Okpebholo for what he described as “a courageous and long-overdue intervention.”
“This hideout has been a source of fear for our community,” the youth leader noted. “We thank Governor Okpebholo for acting swiftly and for prioritising the safety of our people.”
The demolition is presented as a milestone in Governor Okpebholo’s broader security reforms. These initiatives include reinforcing rural surveillance, expanding community-based intelligence networks, and strengthening inter-agency coordination.
The administration maintains that security is the bedrock for economic growth and social stability as the state advances under its SHINE Agenda.
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