Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested a 42-year-old man, Ogbole Henry, for unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition during a routine patrol along the Benin-Lagos highway.
The suspect was nabbed at about 11:30 a.m. by Safer Highway Patrol Team officers led by ASP Enenche Christopher near the notorious “Evil Forest” axis.
He was said to be travelling in a commercial bus from Lagos to Benin when the patrol team intercepted the vehicle.
A search uncovered two locally made pistols, eighteen 9mm live rounds and 10 live cartridges in his possession. Other passengers onboard were profiled and released to continue their journey.
Further investigation traced a pump-action shotgun and a Lexus RX 330 to the suspect, strengthening links to a wider criminal network.
The police confirmed he has since been charged in court, while efforts are ongoing to track down his accomplices.
The commissioner of police, CP Monday Agbonika, warned that the command would sustain intensive highway patrols and intelligence-led operations to stamp out violent crime.
He also urged commercial drivers to be vigilant and scrutinise their passengers to avoid inadvertently aiding criminal activities.
“The command remains committed to protecting life and property and will not relent in ensuring that Edo State is safe for all,” Agbonika said.
