Edo Security Corps arrest father, son, and another suspect over alleged farmer kidnapping and ransom collection in Ovia North East

Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a father and his son, alongside another suspect, over their alleged involvement in the kidnapping of a farmer in Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State.

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The Edo kidnapping suspects arrested operation followed intensified bush combing by security operatives after the reported abduction of a farmer in the area a few days earlier.

Deputy Corps Commander (Operations), Mr Richard Balogun, confirmed the arrests and praised the operatives for what he described as their determination and sustained pressure on the suspected kidnapping gang.

According to him, intelligence-led searches were launched after the victim was abducted and ransom was reportedly collected by the suspects during the incident.

Balogun said the victim, while being processed for release, later identified one of the suspects as the person who allegedly shot him during captivity, a breakthrough that aided the arrests.

He further disclosed that three suspects were eventually apprehended, including a father and his son, as security operatives intensified clearance operations across forested areas believed to be used by the gang.

The suspects are believed to be part of a criminal network allegedly responsible for a series of attacks and killings in Lgue-Ero, Lwu, and Lzakagbon communities within the local government area.

Balogun confirmed that all arrested suspects have been handed over to the police for further investigation and possible prosecution.

He also assured residents that security operations would continue in the area in line with directives from Governor Monday Okpebholo, aimed at flushing out criminal elements and restoring peace.

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The Edo State Security Corps said it remains committed to sustained bush combing operations as part of broader efforts to curb kidnapping and violent crime across the state.