The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Commandant General’s Special Intelligence Squad, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army and the General Manager of BUA International Cement, Mr. Richard Gidado, has arrested 70 suspects over alleged involvement in kidnapping, rape, and criminal activities in the Okpella area of Etsako East Local Government Area of Edo State.

Speaking in an exclusive interview, the Commandant of the CG’s Special Intelligence Squad, Commandant A. S. Dandaura (JP), described the operation as a strategic breakthrough in the ongoing effort to dismantle criminal networks operating under the guise of illegal mining and charcoal trading in the area.

According to him, the operation followed the directive of the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, mni, OFR, who ordered an aggressive onslaught against those responsible for terrorizing communities and the recent killing of eight security personnel attached to BUA Cement Company.

Dandaura explained that the joint operation uncovered several hideouts used by the syndicate to detain kidnapped victims. He noted that while some suspects managed to escape, several victims were successfully rescued, including Mrs. Agbe Martha, who had been held captive for over seven days.

Narrating her ordeal, Mrs. Agbe said she and her sister-in-law were abducted by armed men while working on their rice farm in the Ichoke area of Itsukwi community, Etsako East. Her husband, Mr. Paschal Agbe, narrowly escaped the attack.

She revealed that the kidnappers, who disguised themselves as herders, subjected them to severe torture and demanded a ₦30 million ransom for their release.

The NSCDC National Public Relations Officer, CSC Afolabi Babawale, confirmed the arrests and commended the successful rescue operation. He added that the victims have been reunited with their families.

Meanwhile, the paramount ruler of Itsukwi Kingdom, His Royal Highness Usman Suleiman, the Ogei-Ochi III, expressed gratitude to the NSCDC leadership for restoring peace and hope to the community.

Commandant Dandaura reiterated that the success of the operation underscores the NSCDC Commandant General’s commitment to collaborative security efforts aimed at eradicating crime and ensuring the safety of citizens across Edo State and beyond.

He assured that thorough investigations and prosecution of the suspects will follow to ensure justice is served.