By Ado Oyeyemi
The Edo State Police Command has arrested a 36-year-old passenger, Richard Gabriel, for allegedly being in possession of 36 live cartridges during a stop-and-search operation in Benin City.
The command’s spokesperson, CSP Ino Ikoedem, disclosed the development in a statement issued on Thursday, noting that the suspect was apprehended along the Benin–Auchi Road.
According to the statement, operatives attached to the Ikpoba Hill Area Command intercepted a commercial minibus carrying seven passengers at Guobadia Junction during a routine security check.
Ikoedem explained that confusion ensued after some passengers allegedly abandoned their belongings and attempted to escape upon sighting the police team.
She said, “On May 23, 2026, at about 1pm, officers attached to the Ikpoba Hill Area Command, while conducting stop-and-search duty at Guobadia Junction along the Benin–Auchi Road, intercepted a minibus conveying seven passengers from Benin–Auchi Bypass to Ring Road, Benin City.
“During the operation, three male passengers suddenly abandoned their belongings and attempted to flee the scene.”
The police spokesperson added that officers immediately pursued the fleeing suspects and succeeded in arresting one of them, identified as Gabriel, from Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State.
She stated that a search conducted on the suspect’s bag led to the recovery of 36 rounds of live cartridges allegedly concealed inside the luggage.
Commending the operatives for their alertness and professionalism, the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, reaffirmed the command’s commitment to fighting criminal activities and safeguarding lives and property across the state.
“The Commissioner of Police applauds the vigilance and professionalism displayed by the officers involved in the operation and assures residents of the command’s unwavering resolve to combat crime,” the statement added.
The latest arrest came barely a day after the command announced the arrest of two suspected cultists and the recovery of a firearm during a police operation in the Ohonre community of the state.
