A new warning has been issued to kidnappers and cultists in Edo State following a dramatic declaration by Governor Monday Okpebholo.
The governor said he is prepared to approve death by hanging for convicted kidnappers as part of efforts to restore security. Moreover, he announced plans to establish special courts that will handle kidnapping and cult-related cases within weeks.
The remarks were made in Benin City during the parade of suspected kidnappers and other criminal suspects.
Speaking during the event, Okpebholo said his administration would not allow criminal groups to operate freely.
According to the governor, special courts will soon be created to speed up the trial process. In addition, the courts are expected to focus specifically on kidnapping and cultism cases.
“Now we are going to set a special court to try suspected kidnappers and cultists and decided within two, three weeks we are done with it, and I will sign it. The execution hang him. I will take you to the roundabout so that the whole Edo people will see you, and this I will not have any regrets about,” he said.
“Please don’t take my simplicity for granted,” he said.
Meanwhile, law enforcement authorities continue operations against suspected criminal networks.
Okpebholo also spoke about a recent kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market in Benin City. According to him, security operatives responded swiftly after the incident was reported.
He disclosed that one suspect was arrested during the operation. However, another suspect was killed while attempting to evade security personnel.
The governor added that investigations remain active and efforts are ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang. Therefore, more arrests could be made in the coming days.
Security has remained a major concern in several parts of Nigeria. Consequently, state governments have continued to seek stronger measures to protect residents and businesses.
The governor maintained that there would be no safe haven for kidnappers, cultists, or those supporting criminal activities. He insisted that anyone linked to crime would be identified and brought before the law.
Furthermore, authorities say collaboration between security agencies and residents will be strengthened.
