The Edo State Special Security Squad has destroyed five suspected kidnappers’ hideouts in Owan East Local Government Area after conducting a thorough bush-combing operation in Ekeke Erah Forest.
Eribo Ewanta, a member of the squad, confirmed the operation in a statement released on Saturday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
He stated that the operation was led by the governor’s Principal Security Officer in partnership with the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and other security agencies.
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“Operatives trekked nearly five kilometres deep into the forest, between Afuze and Ora, where the camps were uncovered and destroyed,” he said.
He revealed that evidence of recent activity was found at the sites, including still-burning fires and food left cooking, suggesting the camps were actively in use.
Ewanta noted that the operation resulted in a firefight at a riverbank as the suspected kidnappers, apparently alerted to the raid, attempted to flee.
“Evidence of cattle grazing in the forest further raised suspicion that the hideouts may have been linked to armed herdsmen,” he said.
“Although the suspects escaped deeper into the forest, we are on their trail. Edo State will no longer provide a safe haven for criminal elements.”
He told residents that the operation is part of a persistent security initiative to remove kidnappers and violent groups from the state.
“The governor’s directive is clear: Edo must be free of criminal elements. We will pursue them relentlessly until they are apprehended,” Ewanta stated.
He praised Governor Okpebholo’s security strategy, highlighting that it is boosting public confidence and sending a clear message to criminal networks.
