The Edo State Police Command has arrested three private bouncers and an alleged pepper spray supplier following the unlawful discharge of pepper spray during the 2026 Children’s Day celebration in Benin City, while warning residents against the unauthorised possession and use of restricted security equipment.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Command expressed concern over the growing proliferation and misuse of restricted security accoutrements, including pepper spray, tear-gas canisters and other force-related equipment by private individuals, vigilante groups, bouncers and unauthorised security outfits across the state.
According to the Command, the indiscriminate use of such items without proper training or regard for public safety poses serious risks to innocent citizens and can lead to public disorder.
The police recalled a previous incident on May 25, 2025, when a police officer attached to the Command unlawfully discharged tear gas in the Ogida area of Benin City, resulting in the loss of a life.
“It would be recalled that on 25th May, 2025, a Police Officer attached to the Command unlawfully discharged tear-gas at Ogida, Benin City, an incident which unfortunately led to the loss of a life. The officer involved was immediately arrested and subjected to disciplinary and criminal procedures in line with extant laws,” the statement said.
The Command also referenced the disruption recorded during the Children’s Day celebration held at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium on May 27, 2026, where pepper spray was allegedly discharged by private bouncers within the event venue.
Police said the incident caused panic among attendees and affected several children and other participants.
Following investigations, officers arrested three suspects identified as Ifeanyi John Paul, 36, Ola Ibikunle, 46, and Onoha Chukwuoji, 33, for their alleged involvement in the incident.
Further inquiries led to the arrest of Mrs Rebecca Hassan, who is alleged to have supplied the pepper spray used during the event.
The Command stressed that the unauthorised use of pepper spray, tear gas and similar devices could amount to assault and may cause grievous bodily harm or even death.
“The Command views the unauthorised use of such devices as assault, or acts capable of causing grievous harm, and in certain circumstances, death. Consequently, unlawful possession of these items with intent to commit felony and other related offences is viewed as criminal under the law,” the statement added.
The police therefore issued a stern warning to private security personnel, bouncers, vigilante groups and unauthorised organisations to desist from possessing or using restricted security equipment without lawful authority.
“Henceforth, any person found in possession of such prohibited or unauthorised police/security accoutrements, including sellers, distributors, and suppliers, will be arrested and prosecuted accordingly,” the Command warned.
The Commissioner of Police in Edo State, Monday Agbonika, reassured residents of the Command’s commitment to maintaining public safety and enforcing the law against offenders.
“The Command remains committed to protecting the rights of citizens and will not tolerate any act capable of threatening public peace and safety within the State,” Agbonika stated.
