Operatives of the Edo State Security Corps (ESSC) have arrested a father, his son, and another suspect over the alleged kidnapping of a farmer in Ovia North East Local Government Area of the state.
The suspects are believed to be members of a kidnapping gang reportedly operating in Igue-Ero, Iwu, and Izakagbon communities.
The Deputy Corps Commander (Operations), Richard Balogun, commended the operatives for their efforts, stating that the arrests followed a recent abduction incident involving a farmer in the area.
According to him, the incident prompted an extensive bush combing operation by security personnel in search of the suspects.
“The victim was in the process of being released by his Abductors even though ransom was collected. But the security team did not relent as they continued to search for the said armed men.
“The victim was able to recognise one of the suspects as the person who shot him while in the abductors’ custody”, he said.
Balogun explained that the operation led to the arrest of the three suspects, including the father and son.
He added that the suspects have since been handed over to the police for further investigation.
He also assured that the security corps would sustain ongoing bush combing operations in line with directives from Governor Monday Okpebholo.
It was further gathered that the suspects may be linked to a series of violent incidents in the area.
