Edo Governor Vows Swift Execution of Convicted Kidnappers, Plans Special Court
Okpebholo and some alleged kidnappers
By Reporter
Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has pledged to accelerate the signing of death warrants for convicted kidnappers and cultists as part of intensified efforts to combat violent crime across the state.
The governor made the declaration on Thursday at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City after questioning suspects arrested in connection with the recent abduction of a woman in the state capital.
Okpebholo said his administration was finalising plans to establish a special court dedicated to handling kidnapping and cultism cases, with the aim of ensuring speedy trials and swift justice.
According to him, the proposed court is expected to become operational within the next two to three weeks.
Addressing the suspects during the interrogation, the governor warned that Edo State would no longer serve as a safe haven for kidnappers and cultists. He vowed that all individuals involved in such criminal activities would be tracked down, arrested and prosecuted.
Speaking on the recent kidnapping incident in Benin City, Okpebholo said he immediately contacted the Commissioner of Police and directed security agencies to ensure those responsible were apprehended.
He commended the police for their prompt response, noting that the suspects were arrested within 24 hours despite the Commissioner of Police being outside the state at the time of the incident.
The governor also cautioned residents against engaging in kidnapping and cult-related activities, warning that such crimes often result in loss of lives and property.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, disclosed that the command had arrested 13 suspects linked to kidnapping and cultism.
He said the arrests included members of a gang allegedly involved in the abduction of a woman at a popular vegetable market in Benin City on June 14.
According to the police commissioner, one suspect identified as Marvelous Isaac, 32, was arrested, while two others escaped. He added that another suspect, identified simply as Precious, was killed during an exchange of gunfire with police operatives.
