A joint security operation by police and local vigilantes in Edo State led to the arrest of an unspecified number of suspected bandits and kidnappers at a hotel on Saturday, though accounts of the recovery of high-powered weapons have been disputed by the hotel's management.
The arrests took place at Donchi Donchi Hotel on Odighie Road in the Agbede community of Etsako West Local Government Area. According to reports from local sources, the operation was triggered by community vigilance and a timely tip-off about the arrival of two Hilux vehicles carrying individuals described as "strange persons."
Lawyers and community leaders, including Barr. Abdul Hakeem Enatto, shared details on social media, stating that a combined team of the Agbede Police Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) CSP Donald, and local vigilante members surrounded the hotel. They reportedly waited until the second Hilux vehicle entered the premises before moving in to apprehend the suspects.
Conflicting Narratives on Weapons Recovery
Significantly different versions of events have emerged regarding what was found during the arrest:
* Community/Activist Account: According to posts by Barr. Abdul Hakeem Enatto, a large cache of assault weapons was recovered from the suspects. He listed items allegedly seized as "AK-47 rifle[s], Pump action, locally made rifle and double barrel and other dangerous weapons."
* Hotel Management's Account: In sharp contrast, the manager of Donchi Donchi Hotel, Alhaji Kadiri Sadiq, has publicly stated that no arms were found with the suspects. He explained to reporters that the individuals were merely lodging for a short rest and that it was the hotel staff who grew suspicious and alerted the police themselves.
Attempts to obtain an official statement from the Edo State Police Command's spokesperson, CSP Moses Iyamu, were unsuccessful at the time of initial reporting. This official silence has left the contradictory accounts unresolved.
A Pattern of Vigilante-Police Collaboration
The incident underscores the increasingly critical role of local vigilante groups and community intelligence in combating crime, especially in areas where security forces may be stretched thin. The successful tip-off and coordinated response in Agbede follow a pattern seen across Nigeria, where such collaborations have become essential in tracking and apprehending criminal elements.
The suspects are currently in police custody for further investigation. The case highlights both the effectiveness of community policing initiatives and the challenges of verifying facts in the immediate aftermath of security operations.
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