RismadarVoice Reporters
October 21, 2026
The Edo State Police Command has announced the arrest of 18 suspects over alleged involvement in murder, sexual offences against minors, armed robbery, vehicle theft and cult-related activities across the state.
The Commissioner of Police, Patrick Daaor, disclosed the developments during a press briefing in Benin City on Wednesday, October 21, describing the arrests as part of ongoing operations aimed at combating violent crime and improving public safety.
According to the police commissioner, two suspects were arrested in connection with separate murder investigations, including a case involving a female victim whose body was reportedly discovered by the roadside with signs of mutilation.
Three other suspects were apprehended over alleged sexual assault and defilement involving minors, including children aged two years and nine months and four years.
Daaor said the cases were being investigated by the command’s Gender and Family Unit, with arrangements underway for the suspects to face prosecution.
In Auchi, police operatives arrested four suspects allegedly connected to the July 12, 2026, armed robbery at Paparazzi Communication Complex, during which a security guard was killed, and property valued at more than ₦400 million was reportedly stolen.
The suspects were identified as Hamisu Nuhu, Suleiman Rabiu, Hussaini Gago and Ibrahim Haruna.
Police described Nuhu as the suspected mastermind of the robbery.
In another operation, officers intercepted a Toyota Ultra bus belonging to GUO Transport Company along the Benin–Lagos Road on October 20.
A search reportedly uncovered 350 rounds of ammunition, comprising 100 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, 50 rounds of 7.65mm ammunition and 200 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
Three bags containing substances suspected to be cannabis were also recovered.
The command subsequently arrested the company’s operational manager, Enearu Louis, in connection with the discovery.
Meanwhile, operatives arrested Osakpanwan Ekuase over the alleged theft of five vehicles from a mechanic workshop in Ogheghe community, Benin City.
Police also announced the arrest of four suspected cult members along Upper Siluko Road on October 17 following intelligence about a planned initiation ceremony.
The suspects were identified as Kevwe Kokori, Omoregbe Iguma, Gabriel Kokori and Emmanuel Friday.
In a separate operation, Chidiebere Osazee was arrested in Ulegun community, where officers reportedly recovered a locally modified firearm.
Two other suspects, Nanta James and Sambo Nathan Bala, were arrested over alleged motorcycle robberies around Amagba, Ugbor and the Government Reserved Area of Benin City.
According to the police, a motorcycle suspected to have been stolen was recovered during the investigation.
Daaor assured residents that the command would sustain intelligence-led operations and investigations to dismantle criminal networks operating across the state.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies.
The commissioner also reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property while ensuring that individuals found culpable are prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Investigations into the various cases are ongoing, and the allegations against the suspects remain subject to judicial determination.
