Army arrests suspected kidnapper, recovers AK-47 in Edo

On 12 September 2026, troops from Nigeria's 4 Brigade, working under Operation WABAIZIGAN, apprehended a suspected kidnapper and seized an AK-47 rifle near the Benin–Sapele Road in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area of Edo State.

The army announced the arrest on its X account, revealing that the suspect, named Olamide Oyeniyi, was taken into custody on Saturday during a focused operation targeting criminal activities and securing critical transport routes.

From Oyeniyi, the military recovered an AK-47 rifle, a spare magazine, eight rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, a Tecno mobile phone, two bags, a torchlight, a music box, and various charms. All the seized items are now under the control of the troops for further examination.

The army is investigating any potential connections between the suspect and other criminal groups, as well as his possible involvement in kidnapping incidents along the same route. Authorities are committed to disrupting criminal networks and safeguarding communities and vital transportation corridors in Edo State through continuous operations alongside other security forces.

Nigeria's Army spokesperson, Gilbert Ekugbe, a seasoned journalist with over a decade of experience covering business and economic affairs, emphasized the force's dedication to keeping criminals from operating freely and ensuring the security of Edo State's communities and transportation networks.