The Edo State Police Command has intensified security operations in Ekpoma following disruptions during a protest, with a total of 52 suspects arrested for alleged acts of violence and criminality.
Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, personally led the heavy deployment of personnel in Ekpoma, accompanied by the Commander Mechanized 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun. The operation involved close collaboration with sister security agencies, including the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Security Corp (ESSC), and Hunters, to safeguard public safety and combat kidnapping and other criminal activities in the area.
According to the Command, investigations into the violent disruption of what began as a peaceful protest in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, revealed that the 52 arrested individuals are suspected of engaging in vandalism, assault occasioning harm, looting, rioting, cruelty to animals, and other acts that caused disorder and threatened public safety.
The suspects allegedly forcibly entered the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Anthony Ehizogie Abumere, where they assaulted him and his wife while maliciously destroying property.
The Police Command has strongly refuted widespread claims on social media alleging the arrest of peaceful protesters. It clarified that no lawful or peaceful demonstrator was arrested; instead, such individuals were advised to return home and maintain peace. The arrested suspects, described as hoodlums involved in violent acts, have since been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction.
CP Agbonika reiterated the Command’s firm commitment to upholding citizens’ constitutional rights to peaceful and lawful protest, while maintaining zero tolerance for criminality, violence, or any actions that infringe on the rights of law-abiding citizens.
The public has been urged to disregard unverified and unfounded reports circulating online and to rely solely on official, verified information from the Police Command.
The Edo State Police Command expressed appreciation for the continued cooperation of law-abiding citizens and reaffirmed its unwavering resolve to sustain peace and security throughout Edo State.
Heavy Security Floods Ekpoma as Police Arrest 52 Hoodlums Over Violent Protest, Debunks Social Media Claims
