The Edo State Particular Safety Squad has dismantled 5 suspected kidnappers’ camps in Owan East Native Authorities Space following an in depth bush-combing operation in Ekeke Erah Forest.
A member of the squad, Eribo Ewanta, confirmed the event in an announcement launched on Saturday by Fred Itua, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Monday Okpebholo.
Ewanta stated the operation was coordinated by the governor’s Principal Safety Officer in collaboration with the Nigerian Military, native vigilantes, and different safety businesses.
“Operatives trekked almost 5 kilometres deep into the forest, between Afuze and Ora, the place the camps had been uncovered and destroyed,” he stated.
He disclosed that indicators of current exercise had been found on the websites, together with fireplace nonetheless burning and meals left cooking, indicating the camps had been nonetheless in use.
Ewanta added that the operation escalated right into a gun battle at a riverbank as suspected kidnappers, apparently alerted to the safety raid, tried to flee.
“Proof of cattle grazing within the forest additional raised suspicion that the hideouts could have been linked to armed herdsmen,” he stated.
“Though the suspects escaped deeper into the forest, we’re on their path. Edo State will not present a secure haven for legal components.”
He assured residents that the operation was a part of a sustained safety marketing campaign to rid the state of kidnappers and violent teams.
“The governor’s directive is evident: Edo should be freed from legal components. We’ll pursue them relentlessly till they’re apprehended,” Ewanta said.
He counseled Governor Okpebholo’s safety technique, noting that it was restoring public confidence and sending a powerful warning to legal networks.
