Edo Police dismantle criminal syndicate, dismiss five officers, demote one, and launch prosecution after exposing an extortion and abduction ring.
The Edo Police Dismantle Criminal Syndicate operation exposed a criminal network in Benin City. The network allegedly involved serving police officers, dismissed officers, commercial bus drivers, and civilian accomplices. According to the Edo State Police Command, the group carried out illegal arrests and extortion.
During a press conference, Police Public Relations Officer ASP Eno Ikedem, ANIPR, announced the breakthrough. She said the investigation supports the Inspector-General of Police’s campaign against corruption. As a result, officers linked to crime will face the law.
The investigation started after residents reported harassment, unlawful arrests, abduction, and extortion. Soon afterward, intelligence officers traced the suspects to the Teboga area off Aduwawa in Benin City. Thereafter, investigators gathered evidence before making arrests.
The suspects allegedly stopped innocent people on the road. Next, they forced victims into commercial buses. Then, they drove them around the city. Afterward, the gang ordered the victims to withdraw money through Point-of-Sale operators. Finally, they released the victims.
On April 13, 2026, operatives from the State Intelligence Department arrested members of the syndicate. As a result, the operation disrupted the criminal network. Furthermore, investigators uncovered more evidence during the probe.
Police said the syndicate worked as an organised group. In addition, investigators found that it included serving officers, dismissed officers, bus drivers, and civilian collaborators. Together, they allegedly planned and carried out the crimes.
More than eleven victims have identified members of the syndicate. Moreover, they described how the suspects abducted and extorted them. Meanwhile, investigators continue to receive fresh reports from other victims.
Following disciplinary proceedings, the Police Command reduced Inspector Ehubariemen Wisdom from Inspector to Sergeant. Additionally, the Command completed internal disciplinary procedures.
The Police Command also dismissed five officers. They are Corporal Mordi Philip, Corporal Destiny Emmanuel, Corporal Uwatse Emmanuel, Corporal Okon Elvis, and Corporal Samuel David Obeten. Subsequently, authorities confirmed they would face prosecution.
Inspector Enahoro Nicholas has also been declared a deserter. Currently, detectives are searching for him. Once arrested, he will face prosecution.
The Command warned officers across Nigeria against corruption, extortion, and abuse of office. Likewise, it said anyone who betrays public trust will face investigation and prosecution.
Police also warned Point-of-Sale operators against helping criminal groups. Similarly, anyone who supports extortion or fraudulent transactions will face legal action.
The Command praised the victims who reported the crimes. Because of their courage, investigators dismantled the syndicate. Therefore, police urged more victims and witnesses to come forward.
The Edo Police Dismantle Criminal Syndicate operation highlights the Force’s commitment to accountability. At the same time, police leaders promised to reward honest officers. However, they warned that officers involved in crime would be removed from the Force.
Finally, the Inspector-General of Police reaffirmed his commitment to reform. He said the era of impunity is over. Ultimately, nobody is above the law. He also said no one would use the police uniform to oppress innocent citizens.
