Edo Announces Arrest Of Suspect Who Raised False Alarm On School Children Abduction

By Ayodele Oni

Edo State Government has announced the arrest of the individual who will be prosecuted for raising false alarm of abduction of school children.

Government dismissed the reports which alleged that school students were kidnapped in Sabongida-Ora. It said no such incident occurred and described the report as false and intended to create panic among residents.

The government said the individual responsible for originating and circulating the report has been arrested and would be prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others engaged in spreading misinformation.

In a statement on Thursday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kassim Afegbua, said Governor Monday Okpebholo has invested heavily in strengthening the State’s security architecture and remained committed to safeguarding lives and property.

Afegbua explained that contrary to the false reports, security agencies have recorded successes in tackling crime, including the rescue of a woman, who was abducted around the Vegetable Market axis off Airport Road on June 14.

According to him, the rescue operation was carried out by the police on the directive of the governor, while the suspected kidnappers were arrested and currently in police custody awaiting prosecution.

“The Governor is not resting on his oars in his determination to make Edo State safe for all,” the commissioner said.

He added that investigations had revealed that many kidnapping incidents were often aided by insiders, including relatives, family members and close associates who provide information to criminal elements.

Afegbua quoted the governor as cautioning residents to be mindful of the company they keep and to remain vigilant.