The Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has announced plans to establish a special court to fast-track the prosecution of kidnapping and cultism cases, as part of renewed efforts to tackle rising insecurity in the state.
Okpebholo disclosed this at the Edo State Police Command headquarters in Benin City during the parade of suspected kidnappers and other criminal suspects arrested in recent operations.
He said the proposed court would ensure speedy trials, stressing that cases involving kidnapping and cult-related offences would be concluded within weeks.
“We are going to set up a special court to try suspected kidnappers and cultists. Within two to three weeks, we will conclude such cases,” the governor said.
The move, according to him, is driven by growing concerns over security challenges in parts of the state and the need to strengthen the criminal justice system to deliver swift justice.
Okpebholo vowed that his administration would not allow criminals to operate freely, warning that Edo would no longer be a safe haven for kidnappers, cultists and other violent offenders.
“You cannot commit crime in Edo State and go free. There is no hiding place for criminals. Security agencies are working round the clock to ensure the safety of lives and property,” he added.
The governor’s remarks followed a security briefing on recent operations against criminal gangs, including a kidnapping incident at the Vegetable Market in Benin City.
He revealed that one suspect linked to the incident had been arrested, while another was killed during a security operation, with efforts ongoing to apprehend other members of the gang.
Commending security operatives for their efforts, Okpebholo praised the professionalism and bravery of police officers involved in the arrests and rewarded them for their performance.
He noted that the successes recorded underscored the importance of collaboration between the government and security agencies in combating crime.
The governor also appealed to residents to support security agencies with timely and credible information, urging youths to shun cultism and kidnapping.
“Crime destroys lives and livelihoods. Those involved will ultimately lose everything, including their freedom,” he warned.
He assured residents that his administration would continue to invest in security measures to make the state safer for citizens, businesses and investors.
The parade of suspects, organised by the police command, forms part of intensified efforts to curb kidnapping, cultism and other violent crimes in Edo State amid rising concerns over insecurity.
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