Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has launched a statewide operation to dismantle criminal networks by targeting properties linked to violent crimes. His administration began by demolishing a residential building in Benin City where a young woman was reportedly kidnapped and killed for organ harvesting. The house belonged to the father of the main suspect, who was later arrested in Lagos with human body parts found in his possession. The suspect is now set to be transferred to Edo State for prosecution.
Governor Okpebholo, through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Fred Itua, stated that this marks the beginning of a broader campaign. He confirmed the closure of Eterno Hotel and a nearby event centre, both allegedly used by cult groups as staging areas for deadly attacks. According to the Governor’s office, the government’s actions are backed by legal provisions already in place, and further demolitions of crime-related properties will follow.
Mr Itua dismissed suggestions that the operation had political undertones. He emphasized that the crackdown is focused solely on dismantling structures used for criminal purposes and holding those responsible accountable under state laws.
The father of the arrested suspect, Mr Martins Oghenewore, recounted the devastating moment he discovered what had happened. On the day of the incident, his wife called to inform him that their son had killed a woman in his quarters. Mr Oghenewore immediately alerted the police, who joined him at the property and removed the victim’s body. Since then, he has been cooperating with the authorities and remains in custody.
Speaking emotionally, Mr Oghenewore described his 28-year-old son’s troubled history. He explained that he had spent years trying to help him, enrolling him in rehabilitation centres and seeking help from both medical and traditional sources. The son reportedly lived a chaotic life, rarely staying home and often engaging in substance abuse. Mr Oghenewore said the house, now demolished, was his life savings and planned retirement home, which made watching its destruction even more painful.
Security officials confirmed the ongoing investigation as they work to identify more criminal hideouts and prosecute those involved in kidnappings and cult-related violence. Governor Okpebholo has pledged not to relent in the effort to restore peace and security across Edo State.
