The Edo State Police Command arrested 55 suspected kidnappers and freed 58 victims in operations spanning March and beyond, the force announced on Tuesday.
The arrests marked a significant push by the command to tackle the kidnapping menace that has plagued the southern state. Authorities recovered the victims from various hideouts across Edo during the period covered by the operation.
The police did not provide details on how many incidents the kidnappings represented, the locations where victims were held, or whether ransom payments were involved in any of the cases. The command also did not disclose whether the suspects faced charges or remained in custody pending investigation.
Edo has contended with security challenges in recent months, with criminal gangs operating in both urban and rural areas. The state government has deployed additional security personnel and coordinated with federal agencies to address the problem, though kidnappings and armed robbery continue to occur across the state.
The police command said it would continue intensive patrols and intelligence-led operations to arrest more suspects and rescue remaining victims. Authorities urged residents to report suspicious activities and provide information that could lead to further arrests.
