Operatives of the Edo State Police Command have arrested a 35-year-old man for allegedly being in possession of an illegal firearm.
The suspect, identified as Kingsley Dele, was apprehended by operatives of the Command Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad following credible intelligence.
Confirming the development in a statement released on Thursday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the command, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said the arrest was part of ongoing efforts by the command to curb the proliferation of illegal arms in the state.
She said, “In a decisive, intelligence-led operation underscoring its zero-tolerance stance against the proliferation of illegal arms, the Edo State Police Command has arrested a 35-year-old suspect for unlawful possession of a prohibited firearm.
“On 28th February, 2026, at about 1000hrs, operatives of the Command Intelligence and Rapid Response Squad (CIRRS), acting on actionable and credible intelligence, apprehended one Dr Kingsley Dele of Obaretin Community. A discreet but swift operation led to the recovery of one Beretta pistol from the suspect.”
The police spokesperson explained that the arrest formed part of a sustained crackdown on the circulation of illegal weapons in the state.
According to her, the operation aligns with the strategy of the Commissioner of Police in the state to combat crimes often associated with illicit firearms.
“The arrest forms part of the sustained and strategic offensive being championed by the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, fdc, against the circulation of illicit weapons, which often fuel violent crimes across communities.
“The Command views the illegal possession of firearms, regardless of the status or profession of those involved, as a grave threat to public peace and will continue to respond with firmness and precision.”
Ikokedem added that the suspect would be charged to court after investigations are concluded.
“The suspect will be charged to court upon conclusion of investigation.”
She quoted the Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, as assuring residents of the command’s continued commitment to maintaining security across the state.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, assures residents that the Command remains vigilant, proactive, and unrelenting in its mandate to safeguard lives and property.
“He further calls on members of the public to sustain their cooperation with law enforcement through timely information sharing”, the statement concluded.
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