Edo Forces Uncover and Demolish Five Kidnapper Camps in Owan East

The Edo State Special Security Squad has uncovered and destroyed five suspected kidnappers’ camps in Edo North Senatorial District during a major bush-combing operation in the Ekeke Erah Forest, Owan East Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by Governor Monday Okpebholo’s Chief Press Secretary, Monday Itua, the two-day operation, conducted on Thursday and Friday, was led by the Governor’s Principal Security Officer in partnership with the Nigerian Army, local vigilantes, and other security agencies.

Operatives trekked nearly five kilometres into the dense forest between Afuze and Ora before discovering the camps. According to squad member Eribo Ewanta, evidence indicated the hideouts were in active use, with fire still burning and food left cooking as occupants fled.

The operation escalated into a gun battle at a riverbank after suspected kidnappers attempted to evade capture. Although the criminals escaped deeper into the forest, their camps were dismantled. Ewanta further noted signs of cattle grazing, raising suspicion of links to armed herdsmen.

“We engaged them in a gun duel, but they escaped. However, their camps have been destroyed. Edo State will no longer provide safe haven for criminals,” Ewanta declared, assuring residents that security forces remain committed to flushing out kidnappers and cultists.

He also praised Governor Okpebholo for prioritising security through the launch of the Edo State Special Security Squad, known as Operation Flush Out Cultists and Kidnappers. The outfit has since led raids, made arrests, demolished criminal hideouts, and disrupted cult networks across the state.

The clampdown comes amid persistent insecurity in Edo and neighbouring states, where kidnapping and cult violence have posed major threats. In recent months, police rescued 16 kidnapped travellers along the Benin-Auchi highway, while the ESSC arrested 18 suspected kidnappers and robbers near an army checkpoint on the same route.