Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has approved the establishment of a Special Security Squad to flush out kidnappers and cultists terrorising the state.
The Special Squad would operate under the code “Operation Flush Out Kidnappers and Cultists”.
Governor Okpebholo said the initiative would be jointly coordinated by the Office of the Principal Security Officer (PSO) to the Governor and the Chief Security Officer (CSO) at the Government House.
A statement by Okpebholo’s chief press secretary, Fred Itua, listed areas affected by the menace of kidnapping and cultism to include Benin City, Ekpoma, Auchi, and their environs.
The statement said the state of insecurity in the state led to the exodus of investors, disrupted local economies, and left residents living in fear.
It said Governor Okpebholo’s top priority to tackle insecurity led to the offer of amnesty and reintegration to repentant cultists, thereby encouraging them to turn a new leaf and contribute to society.
According to the statement, “The initiative yielded early success as some former cult members embraced the call and joined community policing and civic education programs.
“The continued activities of hardened criminals have necessitated a more robust response. The new operation will collaborate with the Nigerian Police and other sister security agencies to dislodge deadly cultists and kidnapping syndicates operating across the 18 local government areas.
“The squad will consist of a carefully profiled and recruited team of able-bodied men, including repentant cultists, hunters, and vigilantes. These recruits will form local squads within each LGA, ensuring community involvement and swift operational response to security threats.
“Security agencies have now been placed on red alert across the State. The Governor has directed the PSO and CSO to ensure full implementation of the operation, noting that accountability, professionalism, and community engagement must remain at the heart of the new initiative.
“Hopes are high that Edo State is entering a new chapter in its quest for peace and security, one where citizens, security forces, and community leaders work hand in hand to reclaim the streets from the grip of criminal elements.”
