How security squad smashed kidnappers’ camps in Edo forests

The Edo State Special Security Squad has uncovered an armoury and abandoned kidnapper camps hidden in forests across the state.

The breakthrough came during a three-day bush-combing operation supervised by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s security team.

The raid followed last week’s killings of eight NSCDC operatives guarding the BUA Cement Factory in Okpella and the abduction of a Chinese expatriate. Several passengers were also kidnapped along the Benin–Auchi Road, though 16 were later rescued.

Governor’s spokesman Fred Itua said the operation covered Ovia North-East, Esan North-East, Esan West and Esan South-East councils, with special focus on the Benin-Akure Road corridor, a recent hotspot.

Recovered items included two locally made double-barrel guns and live cartridges in Ovia North-East communities.

Head of the squad, Idemudia Noah, said drones, military personnel and advanced surveillance were deployed.

“Edo must be too unsafe for criminals. The message is clear: criminals must leave or face decisive action,” he warned.

Community leaders, including the Okhighele of Eko-Ekpeti, Osaro Ehiozomwangie, commended the operation, saying local hunters had been overstretched.

The show-of-force also extended to Sobe, Ekpoma, Uromi, Irrua and other towns. While no arrests have been made yet, officials say the mission is ongoing to dismantle kidnapper bases before they strike again.