The Edo State Police Command has concluded an extensive statewide forest clearance and security assessment operation aimed at disrupting criminal activities, strengthening public safety, and enhancing security across the state.
According to a statement issued on June 9, 2026, by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the operation was conducted between May 30 and June 5 under the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika.
The exercise focused primarily on the Edo Central Senatorial District, covering the Ubiaja Forest, Uzea Forest, and the Uromi/Amedokhian Forest corridor. It also extended to major transportation routes in the Edo South Senatorial District, including the Benin-Lagos Expressway and the Benin-Akure Expressway.
The police said the operation was designed to deny criminal elements safe havens, boost public confidence, and improve the state’s overall security architecture while ensuring the uninterrupted movement of people and goods.
To support the operation, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, deployed police air assets equipped with General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG). The aerial assets worked in collaboration with the Command’s Drone Unit to provide real-time surveillance, intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and operational support for personnel on the ground.
During the operation, CP Agbonika visited the Sunday Camp axis in Ovia North East Local Government Area following reports alleging that members of the host community had been killed during a night operation. The police said the claims were investigated and found to be false.
The visit also provided an opportunity for the police commissioner to engage with administrators, religious leaders, educators, humanitarian workers, and community representatives on prevailing security challenges and emerging threats in the area.
According to the command, stakeholders discussed measures to address identified security gaps and improve emergency preparedness, access control systems, surveillance coverage, and response capabilities.
The Edo State Police Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and vowed to continue deploying all lawful means to keep the state safe and hostile to criminal elements.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities to security agencies through the command’s emergency response channels.
