By Israel Adebiyi

The Edo State Police Command has intensified its crackdown on criminals as operatives of the Anti-Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing Unit of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) carried out a successful operation at Kendrona Hotel, off Country Home Road in Benin City.

Acting on credible intelligence, the officers stormed the hotel on the 13th of May, 2025, where a gang suspected of armed robbery, kidnapping, and cultism had been hibernating.

During the raid, 22-year-old Endurance Oviojie was arrested, while four other suspects identified as Clinton, Jeff, Mike, and Emmanuel, alias Slim Khalifa, escaped through the fence into surrounding properties.

The operation led to the recovery of several dangerous items including one English Beretta pistol, one locally made pistol, one live ammunition, 18 live cartridges, five assorted mobile phones, one electronic tablet, various charms, and illicit drugs.

Further investigation uncovered four unregistered luxury Mercedes-Benz vehicles believed to have been stolen or used for criminal activities. 

The vehicles include one black C350, one grey C300, one grey GLA 250, and one red GLE 350. 

A police statement noted that the arrested suspect has been charged to court while police have intensified efforts to track down the fleeing gang members.

Reacting to the operation, the State Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, assured residents of the command’s unwavering resolve to rid the state of criminals. 

He warned all criminal elements to either flee the state or be prepared to face the full force of the law.