The Edo State Police Command apprehended two suspected kidnappers during a patrol of the Auchi-Igarra Highway in Edo North, police stated on Wednesday.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the state command’s Public Relations Officer, Eno Ikoedem, the suspects were identified by a vigilante member as members of a kidnapping racket.
“The Edo State Police Command has recorded significant successes in the fight against kidnapping through proactive patrols and sustained intelligence-led operations in Igarra and its environs, in line with the crime-fighting strategies of the Commissioner of Police, Edo State Command, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc,” the statement read.
According to the statement, on January 28, 2026, at approximately 13:30 hours, agents from the Igarra Area Command detained Muhammed Muamadu Haru ‘M’, 35, and Abubakar Muhammed Haruna ‘M’, 25, while on duty at their regular nipping point along the highway.
“The suspects were identified by a vigilante member as members of a kidnapping syndicate during an exchange of fire in one of the joint bush-combing rescue operations.
“Upon recognition, the suspects attempted to escape into the bush but were quickly intercepted and arrested. Investigation is ongoing,” the statement added.
In a related development, on Monday, February 2, 2026, at approximately 17:00 hrs, an Igarra Area Command motorcycle patrol convoy stopped another kidnapping attempt on the Auchi-Igarra Express Road.
The patrol stopped three suspected kidnappers who were preparing to block the road. The suspects ran into the forest, leaving behind goods thought to be logistics for criminal operations, such as food, mobile phones, jackknives, and other personal effects. Bush-combing efforts are currently underway to apprehend the fleeing culprits.
The Commissioner of Police praised the officers for their vigilance and professionalism, telling the public that the command is committed to ridding the state of criminal elements.
He asked locals to be watchful and report any suspicious persons or activity to the nearest police station or established emergency lines.
