Troops of the Nigerian Army attached to the 4 Brigade, in collaboration with other security agencies and the Edo State Security Corps, have arrested 12 suspected kidnappers during coordinated clearance operations across parts of Edo State.
The security operation, code-named “Operation KO SALO,” commenced on May 12, 2026, targeting criminal hideouts and suspected kidnapping camps in Owan East and Esan South East Local Government Areas of the state.
Areas raided during the operation included Ugbovbighan Village, Olelo Forest, Egoro Amede Village, and Rugan Fulani settlement, where security operatives carried out extensive combing and surveillance activities.
According to military authorities, three of the suspects arrested at Olelo Forest were identified as Ishaya Obadis, Markus Ballu, and Godknows Owonoji.
Items recovered from the suspects during the operation included two motorcycles and two mobile phones believed to have been used for criminal activities.
Preliminary investigations by security agencies indicated that some of the suspects allegedly acted as collaborators and logistics suppliers for kidnapping syndicates operating within the affected communities.
The Army said the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to dismantle criminal networks, restore security, and protect residents across Edo State and neighbouring areas.
Security operatives have also intensified intelligence gathering and patrol activities within the forests and rural communities as investigations continue into the activities of the arrested suspects.
