Nigerian Army Dismantles Kidnappers Hideouts in Edo
Nigerian Army Dismantles Kidnappers Hideouts in Edo
Nigerian Army Dismantles Kidnappers hideouts in Edo North. Troops of the Nigerian Army have dismantled several kidnappers’ hideouts in Edo North Senatorial District, arresting no fewer than 13 suspected criminals and recovering arms, illicit drugs, and other incriminating items during coordinated security operations across the area.
The operations, which were carried out following actionable intelligence, targeted forest routes and remote communities believed to be major operational bases for kidnapping gangs terrorising residents and commuters in Edo North. Military sources said the raids were part of ongoing efforts to flush out criminal elements and restore lasting peace to the region.
According to information obtained, the troops stormed multiple hideouts after days of surveillance, leading to the arrest of suspects alleged to be directly involved in kidnapping, armed robbery, and other criminal activities. During the raids, soldiers recovered locally fabricated firearms, ammunition, substances suspected to be hard drugs, communication devices, and other items believed to have been used in coordinating criminal operations.
A military source disclosed that some of the suspects attempted to flee on sighting the troops but were overpowered after a brief pursuit. Others were apprehended at the hideouts without resistance. The source noted that no casualties were recorded among the troops during the operations.
“The troops acted on credible intelligence indicating the presence of kidnapping syndicates operating from these locations,” the source said. “The operation was successful, and several criminal camps have been dismantled. The suspects arrested are currently undergoing preliminary investigation.”
Residents of communities within the Edo North Senatorial District have for months complained of rising cases of abduction, particularly along highways and isolated rural roads. Victims are often taken into surrounding forests, where ransom is demanded from their families before release. The situation had heightened fear and disrupted economic activities in the area.
Local sources say the latest military action has brought a measure of relief to residents, many of whom had begun to limit movement due to security concerns. “People are happy to see the soldiers taking action,” a resident said. “Kidnapping has made life very difficult here, especially for farmers and traders who depend on moving from one place to another.”
The recovered items, including arms and drugs, are believed to further expose the scale of criminal networks operating in the region. Security officials say investigations will help uncover sponsors, collaborators, and possible links to other criminal groups within and outside the state.
The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to working with other security agencies, including the police and local vigilante groups, to sustain pressure on criminal elements. Troops have also increased patrols along key routes and forest corridors to prevent the re-establishment of the dismantled camps.
Meanwhile, residents have been urged to continue supporting security efforts by providing timely and credible information on suspicious movements or activities. Military authorities emphasized that community cooperation remains critical to winning the fight against kidnapping and other forms of insecurity.
The Edo State Government has commended the Nigerian Army for the successful operation, describing it as a significant step toward improving safety in Edo North. The government also assured residents that it will continue to support security agencies with logistics and coordination to ensure that criminal activities are curtailed across the state.
As investigations continue, the arrested suspects are expected to be handed over to relevant authorities for prosecution, while security forces maintain a strong presence in the area to reassure residents and deter further criminal acts.
