FIC Report (Edo State) – Troops of the 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, in collaboration with other Security Agencies and the Edo State Security Corps, have successfully conducted clearance operations across several Communities in Edo State, resulting in the arrest of 12 suspected kidnappers and the recovery of weapons and stolen items.
The Operations, which commenced on May 12, 2026, targeted known hideouts of criminal elements in Owan East and Esan South-East Local Government Areas. A press statement released by Captain Kennedy Anyanwu, Assistant Director Army Public Relations of 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Benin City, detailed the outcomes of these security efforts.
During Operation KO SALO, troops cleared key areas including Ugbovbighan Village, Olelo Forest, Egoro Amede Village, and conducted Cordon-and-Search Operations at Rugan Fulani settlement. At Olelo Forest, three suspects—Ishaya Obadis (20), Markus Ballu (35), and Godknows Owonoji (30)—were apprehended. Items recovered from these suspects included two Motorcycles and two Mobile phones. Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspects were logistics suppliers and collaborators of kidnappers. They have been handed over to the Ekpoma Police Division for further investigation.
In addition, troops searched Ekeke Forest, Ishiolili Village, and Camp Sule Rugan Fulani in Owan East LGA, arresting two individuals—Bala Mahmood (70) and Ibrahim Abdullahi (25)—who were found in possession of dangerous weapons and a small Tecno mobile phone. These suspects and items have also been transferred to police authorities for further action.
The Security sweep extended to Uwarlor-Oke Forest in Esan North-East LGA and the Udo Government Reserve Forest in Esan South-East LGA. In Uwarlor-Oke Forest, seven suspected kidnappers—Isah Shehu (25), Hamadu Safiyanu (22), Tijani Shehu (24), Yahaya Babangida (25), Usman Hamza (26), Abduladi Saleh (23), and Gadafi Tukur (27)—were arrested. Items recovered included one motorcycle and two Itel mobile phones. The suspects and recovered items were handed over to the Amendokhian Police Division.
In a related Operation, troops in conjunction with the Nigerian Police Force and Local Vigilantes searched Emu Forest in Emu LGA. During this operation, they recovered a locally made long-barrel gun and a motorcycle from Otobo Camp and Nnamdo Camp. These items have been deposited at the Ubiaja Police Division for further investigation.
Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, Commander of 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, commended the troops for their Professionalism and urged them to sustain the momentum in dismantling all criminal hideouts across Edo State. He reassured residents of the Brigade’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through continuous offensive operations.
The Brigadier General also called on members of the Public to support Security efforts by providing timely and credible information to Security Agencies. He expressed appreciation to Major General Chinedu Nnebeife, GOC 2 Division, for his strategic guidance, which has greatly contributed to the success of the ongoing Operations.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO FIC Benin
May 20th, 2026.
