The Edo State Special Security Squad, codenamed Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers, has dismantled five suspected kidnapper camps during a coordinated operation in the Ekeke Erah Forest of Owan East Local Government Area.
The operation, which took place deep within Edo North Senatorial District, was led by the Principal Security Officer to Governor Monday Okpebholo and carried out in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, local vigilante groups, and other sister security agencies.
In a statement released on Saturday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the team reportedly trekked nearly five kilometers into the dense forest between Afuze and Ora, uncovering and destroying the hideouts.
Eribo Ewanta, a member of the Special Squad, disclosed after the six-hour operation that all five camps showed signs of recent use.
“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,” he said.
The operation escalated into a gunfight near a riverbank when the suspects, believed to have been alerted, attempted to escape. Ewanta added that while the kidnappers managed to flee further into the forest, security forces are actively pursuing them.
“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,” he stated.
Suspicion also mounted over potential links to armed herdsmen, as evidence of cattle grazing was found around the camps.
Ewanta assured residents that the operation is part of a sustained offensive to rid Edo State of criminal activity.
“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.”
He commended Governor Monday Okpebholo for his firm stance on state security and highlighted the administration’s coordinated strategy as a key factor in restoring public confidence and sending a strong warning to criminal groups.
