By Ifueko Osayande

Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has condemned the kidnapping that reportedly took place on Sunday at the Vegetable Market along Airport Road, Benin City, describing it as unacceptable and a direct attack on innocent residents.

In a statement released on Monday by his media aide, Patrick Ebojele, the governor also directed the Edo State Commissioner of Police to immediately commence a swift and coordinated investigation into the incident with a view at securing the safe rescue of the victims and arresting those responsible for the attack.

The governor warned that the state government would not tolerate any act that threatens public safety and security or disturbs the peace of the state.

He stated, “I strongly condemn this act of kidnapping and I call on the Commissioner of Police to immediately open investigation into the matter.

“As a government, we will not tolerate any act that threatens public safety and security or disturbs the peace of the state.”

Okpebholo urges residents of Benin City and across Edo state to remain alert and report any suspicious movements to the nearest Police station stressing that timely information will support ongoing police operations.

He reaffirmed that the government would not relent until those responsible were apprehended and made to face the full weight of the law.

Recall that a woman was kidnapped while shopping in one of the stores at the Vegetable market, which was captured in a video.