Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has called for the establishment of special courts to prosecute kidnappers and cultists in the state.
He made the call during the parade of suspected criminals arrested by the Edo State Police Command in Benin on Thursday.
Okpebholo said the proposed courts would help fast-track trials and prevent prolonged criminal cases in the justice system.
He stated that once judicial processes are concluded, he would not hesitate to sign death warrants for convicted offenders.
According to him, “Now we are going to set up a special court to try kidnappers and cultists, within two or three weeks we are done with it and I will sign your warrant for execution or hanging.”
He added, “I will take you to the roundabout, that is a ring road, so that the whole people will see you.”
The governor warned criminals against operating in Edo State, saying the government would not tolerate kidnapping or cult-related violence.
He said security agencies were working day and night to ensure the state remains safe for residents.
Okpebholo also urged youths to avoid cultism and kidnapping, warning that crime leads to loss of life and opportunities.
“It is cheaper for you to maintain your standard than to go into kidnapping,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Edo State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, confirmed the arrest of several suspects linked to kidnapping and extortion cases.
He said one suspect, Oluchi Ugbowan, allegedly staged her own abduction to extort N50 million from her family.
Agbonika said intelligence-led investigation led to the arrest of accomplices involved in ransom negotiations.
He added that a pump-action gun was recovered during further investigations into related criminal activities.
The police commissioner said other suspects linked to recent kidnappings in Benin City have also been arrested through coordinated operations.
