Edo state Joint Security Taskforce has apprehended at least seven suspected kidnappers in the state.
This was after a successful raid at the weekend on Upper Sakponba, and riverine communities in the state.
The suspects, all male, were arrested around Ogbemudia Oil Palm Plantation during a search on the forest in the area.
The arrest is coming barely 24 hours after the military commenced a seven-day operation to fish out criminals in the state following upsurge crime, especially kidnapping and cult related violence and killings.
Prior to the operation, General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Major General Anthony Omozoje, had met with Governor Godwin Obaseki to intimate him on the planned operation in the state.
He also met with heads of security agencies in the state, seeking collaboration in restoring peace and order in the state.
Speaking on the arrest, Gen. Omozoje said the taskforce were on clearance operation at suspected kidnappers hideouts at Ogbemudia oil palm plantation and the river behind it when the suspects were arrested.
According to him, they intend to disrupt all kidnapping activities along the axis and secure the Benin-Auchi Expressway.
He also noted that several escaped prisoners and criminal gang leaders have been arrested, as the taskforce is focused on ensuring a reduction in crime in Benin metropolis and environs.
He added that he is in synergy with the Commander 4 Brigade, Brig. Gen. UM Bello, and the Assistant Inspector General (AIG), Zone 5, Mr. Sola Davis.
It would be recalled that on Friday, the chairman,Esan Central local government of the state, Mr. Waziri Edokpa, and 13 other persons were reportedly kidnapped while travelling on the Benin-Auchi road.