EDO STATE SECURITY FORCES DISMANTLE KIDNAPPER CAMPS IN NORTHERN FORESTS

Edo State’s Special Security Squad, Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, has destroyed five suspected kidnapper camps in the Ekeke Erah Forest, Owan East Local Government Area, Edo North Senatorial District. The operation involved collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local vigilante groups, and other security agencies, coordinated by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo, Fred Itua said in a statement.

Fred Itua noted the security operatives conducted a six-hour bush-combing exercise, trekking nearly five kilometers into the forest between Afuze and Ora where the camps were uncovered. Eribo Ewanta, a Squad member, indicated signs of recent activity showed the camps were active. “We discovered five camps, with clear indications that their occupants had only just fled. We found fire still burning and a pot of food left on the fire. This confirms the presence of suspected kidnappers in this area,” Ewanta said.

The operation led to a gun battle at a riverbank as suspects tried to evade capture. Evidence of cattle grazing suggested possible links to armed herdsmen. “We engaged the suspects in a serious gun duel, but they escaped deeper into the forest. Nevertheless, we are on their trail. Their camps have been dismantled and destroyed. Edo State will no longer provide safe haven for criminal elements,” Ewanta declared.

Fred Itua commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for fortifying security, saying the administration’s strategy is restoring public confidence. Ewanta assured residents the operation marks the start of sustained efforts to flush out kidnappers, stating, “We are battle ready. The directive of the Governor is clear: Edo must be free of criminal elements. We will pursue them relentlessly until they are apprehended.”