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The Nigerian security forces have arrested a kidnap gang during a joint operation in Agbede Forest, Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State.
The Edo State Police Command-led joint security team conducted the raid early on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, according to a statement issued on Thursday.
The Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, stated that the operation was made possible by information provided by a kidnap victim who recognised the forest camp where he had been detained.
“The operation was launched following a critical intelligence breakthrough provided by a kidnapped victim who was able to clearly identify the forest camp where he had been held captive,” Ikoedem stated.
Ikoedem disclosed that the state police commissioner, Monday Agbonika, led the operation, along with personnel from the Nigerian Army, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Edo State Security Corps, and local hunters, into the forest at night.
“Demonstrating precision and determination, the joint team drove for approximately three (3) hours until the end of the last accessible motorable road,” he stated.
“From that point, the operatives advanced on foot, navigating dense forest paths and crossing three (3) locally constructed wooden bridges to reach the identified camp.
“The silent advance, which lasted close to two (2) additional hours, ensured tactical surprise and prevented any compromise of the mission.”
Ikoedem added that the area was quickly cordoned off in a well-coordinated encirclement upon arrival at the location at approximately 3:45 a.m., thereby blocking off all escape routes.
He noted that six suspects were arrested during the operation.
The suspects are Mikel Gendaga, 41, from Benue State; Yusuf Abubakar, 34, from Kano State; Isyaka Abraham, 30, from Kogi State; Isyaka Abubakar, 37, from Kano State; Mohammed Sumo, 20, from Kano State; and Mohammed Abubakar, 25, also from Kano State.
Officers from the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Benin City, are currently profiling and thoroughly investigating six suspects in preparation for prosecution, the police officer disclosed.
