The Edo State Special Security Squad has demolished a major operational hideout used by a notorious kidnap gang in Egbai Community, Ovia North East LGA, following the arrest of two suspected kingpins linked to multiple abductions and ransom operations.
The suspects Anthony Fedigha Ebimienwei and Luke Disemoh were apprehended after what authorities described as high level, intelligence driven surveillance, triggered by their demand for a staggering ₦500 million ransom from a recently abducted businessperson.
Security officials revealed that both men had earlier confessed to kidnapping one Blessing Nosa, who was released after the gang collected ₦30 million ransom.
Speaking during the demolition of the hideout, Coordinator of the Edo State Security Squad, Noah Idemudia, said the operation was carried out in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s directive to deploy aggressive, offensive security tactics that disrupt criminal networks before they escalate.
Idemudia said the state’s position on criminality remains uncompromising, warning that Edo will not serve as a refuge for kidnappers or criminal gangs.
He added that similar operations would be sustained across the state to systematically dismantle kidnapping syndicates.
Reacting, youth leader of Egbai Community, Aghaku Ihanuwaze, praised the government for what he described as a long overdue intervention, noting that the demolished hideout had been a source of fear and repeated attacks on residents.