Lucky Obukohwo, Reporting
The Edo State Special Security Squad (ESSSS) has apprehended two suspected kidnappers — Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh in Egbai community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects were arrested in their hideout following a “high-level, intelligence-led surveillance.
The duo allegedly confessed to have kidnapped a local resident, Blessing Nosa, who paid a ransom of N30 million before she was released.
Authorities say the pair triggered a broader multi-agency response after they abducted another business person and issued a ransom demand of N500 million, prompting round-the-clock tracking that culminated in their arrest.
Their arrest led to the demolition of the property which serves as a hideout for them.
Speaking at the demolition site, Noah Idemudia, Coordinator of the Special Security Squad, said the action reflects Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive to shift the state’s security posture from reactive enforcement to pre-emptive disruption of criminal networks.
“These individuals have been in this trade for some time. Under Governor Okpebholo’s watch, Edo State is not a safe haven for kidnappers or any criminal elements,” he said, adding that similar operations will be intensified across vulnerable communities.
Local leaders say the intervention is long overdue. Aghaku Ihanuwaze, Okaighele (youth leader) of Egbai community, noted that the hideout had been a persistent source of insecurity and expressed optimism that the state’s escalating operations would restore safety and economic activity in rural corridors.
The demolition forms part of the administration’s broader security reforms under the SHINE Agenda, which prioritises rural surveillance, community-based intelligence networks and stronger inter-agency coordination — measures the government says are essential for stabilising the environment for investment and community development.