The Edo State Police Command has announced a series of significant law enforcement successes for the month of September, including the arrest of 37 individuals linked to sexual and domestic abuse.
Commissioner of Police, Mr. Monday Agbonika, disclosed the developments during a press briefing in Benin City on Saturday.
Agbonika emphasized that the arrests were part of a targeted campaign to address the rising cases of sexual and gender-based violence, including rape, across the state. He confirmed that all suspects had undergone investigation and were currently facing prosecution in court.
In addition to tackling abuse-related crimes, the command also apprehended suspects involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, murder, and cult-related activities.
Seven suspected kidnappers were taken into custody, while two others were neutralized during operations. A total of 48 victims were successfully rescued from captivity.
The commissioner highlighted the disruption of cult initiation ceremonies in Benin, Auchi, and Ekpoma, which led to the arrest of 38 suspected cultists, including leaders of rival groups. He noted that the command’s efforts had brought cult-related killings in Benin to zero percent during the review period.
Recovered items from various operations included eight firearms, 56 rounds of live ammunition, five expended cartridges, nine vehicles, 18 motorcycles, six car master keys, 10 University of Benin car access cards, multiple mobile phones, and two point-of-sale machines.
Agbonika attributed the success to the command’s renewed operational strategy, which prioritizes intelligence-led policing, proactive crime prevention, and strong community partnerships. He stated that the command had built a robust support network that continues to enhance its crime-fighting capabilities across Edo State.
The commissioner reaffirmed the police’s commitment to maintaining public safety and urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperative in the fight against crime.