Ekpoma Protest: Heavy Security Deployed to Curb Criminality as Police Arrest 52 Suspects, Dismiss Social Media Misinformation

The Edo State Police Command has intensified security operations in Ekpoma, Esan West Local Government Area, following a protest that was reportedly hijacked by criminal elements, leading to vandalism, assaults, and public disorder.

Akahi News learnt that the Commissioner of Police in Edo State, CP Monday Agbonika, fdc, personally supervised the deployment of heavy security presence in the town to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order.

Police, Army, NSCDC, ESSC in Joint Security Operation

According to the police update made available to Akahi News, the Commissioner was accompanied by the Commander, Mechanised 4 Brigade, Brigadier General Ahmed Olatunboju Balogun, as they coordinated joint operations with sister security agencies.

The collaborative deployment includes personnel from the Nigeria Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Edo State Security Corps (ESSC), and local hunters. The operation is aimed at sustaining public safety and tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities that have raised concerns among residents.

Akahi News gathered that the heavy presence of security operatives is intended to reassure residents, deter criminal activities, and ensure that Ekpoma remains stable after the unrest.

52 Suspects Arrested Over Vandalism, Assault and Looting

Investigations into the disruption of what was initially a peaceful protest led to the arrest of fifty-two (52) suspects. Police said the individuals were allegedly involved in violent acts including vandalism, assault occasioning harm, looting, rioting, cruelty to animals, and other activities capable of undermining public safety.

Security sources told Akahi News that the suspects allegedly forced their way into the palace of the Enogie of Ekpoma, His Royal Highness Anthony Ehizogie Abumere, where they reportedly assaulted the monarch and his wife while destroying property within the palace premises.

The arrested persons have since been arraigned before a court of competent jurisdiction, as investigations continue.

Police Debunk Claims of Arresting Peaceful Protesters

Reacting to reports circulating on social media, the Edo State Police Command dismissed claims that peaceful protesters were arrested during the operation.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Eno Ikoedem, the Command clarified that no lawful protester was detained. Rather, peaceful demonstrators were advised to return home and maintain calm, while only those allegedly involved in criminal activities were taken into custody.

The Commissioner of Police reiterated the Command’s commitment to protecting the constitutional rights of citizens to lawful and peaceful protest, stressing that the police maintain zero tolerance for violence, criminality, and actions capable of infringing on the rights of law-abiding citizens.

Akahi News reports that members of the public have been urged to disregard unverified reports and rely on credible information from official sources.

Residents Urged to Remain Calm and Law-Abiding

The police further appreciated the cooperation of residents and assured the public of their resolve to sustain peace and security across Edo State.

Community leaders and residents who spoke with newsmen expressed hope that the sustained security presence would deter criminal elements and restore full normalcy in Ekpoma.

As the situation continues to stabilise, Akahi News will keep monitoring developments and provide verified updates as more facts emerge.

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Joseph Iyaji is a journalist, educator, and founder of Akahi G. International, Akahi Tutors, and Akahi News. Read more about him here.
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