Police operatives have arrested political thugs and party loyalists involved in vote-buying in Edo State.
The operation, which targeted known hotspots for electoral crimes, took place around 7:00 p.m. and led to the recovery of cash and incriminating materials.
A statement released by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, via his X (formerly Twitter) account, confirmed the arrests of two suspects, Emotingham Godspower (25) and Farawei Isaac (27), both from Ufunama community in Ovia South West Local Government Area.
The two men, alleged members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), were apprehended at So Cash Guest House in Ekpoma, where a significant amount of cash, pre-filled ballot papers, and fake identification cards were seized.
“The suspects are linked to a wider criminal network involving individuals known as ‘Atiku’ and a kingpin called ‘the boss’,” ACP Adejobi disclosed in the statement. “This is part of a well-coordinated operation aimed at ensuring the integrity of the upcoming elections.”
Additionally, six other suspects, identified as Suleiman Abdurahim, Fatima Yakubu, Yusuf Aminat (52), Salihu Lukman (54), and Safianu Saratu (32), were arrested at Aibotse Secondary School near Meremu Hotel in Auchi. They were found with large sums of money, weapons, and detailed plans for intimidating voters.
The police also detained a man posing as a journalist from a major television station, underscoring the depth of the criminal network uncovered in this operation.
“Our strategic planning and rapid response have disrupted an attempt to corrupt the electoral process,” said Adejobi. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to a peaceful, free, and fair election.”
Investigations are still ongoing, with further updates expected as authorities continue to crack down on electoral fraud across the state.
